What is the use of a signing avatar?

It provided a fascinating insight into the challenges faced by developers of assistive technology (AT) in making sure that what is produced is really useful for the target audience.

It is essential to understand that there is a distinct difference between the deaf and other disability groups. The Deaf are a ‘community’ because they communicate in their own language (BSL). I have been chastised, quiet rightly, for talking about ‘disabled communities’ but deaf people undoubtedly see themselves as part of a community with clubs, societies, a language (with dialects) and a unique and vibrant culture.

The main research on signing avatars has been done by Prof. John Glauert at the University of East Anglia. This research has now been used by the BBC to produce educational materials for deaf children.

Read it all here.

Published on March 30, 2008

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