SCIENCE DAILY, USA— Last week, Science Daily reported on newly developed software that transmits sign language over cell phones. A group of University of Washington Engineers received a National Science Foundation grant for the project, called MobileASL, which begins official next year. The system will provide two-way real-time video communication and the demonstration project on YouTube (http://youtube.com/watch?v=FaE1PvJwI8E) has been a smash hit with the Deaf community. The MobileASL project website is available at: http://mobileasl.cs.washington.edu/index.html
45 comments:
interesting! This can really make it big. Not only will this make greater advantages for the deaf, i am sure this will become something big for the general community. Its great to hear that they are providing grants for projects like these. This will be great help to the Deaf community.
Carmen G.
When txt messagening first began I thought this could be the GREATEST thing to happen for the deaf community. Obviously I was wrong.
In viewing the you tube video,this new software seems like an even more personal and effective way for the deaf to communicate.
It's amazing the things that technology can do to empower those with disablities. ( I wonder how much this software costs.)
Cris M.
WOW!! im really excited once this software hits the market. I mean its great that technology is getting better ways to help out people with disabilitys. Im sure it will be a great success.
Jennifer Garces
How great ! Its pretty nice how technology is growing and growing. I think it is a very good idea to create that software to help people that need sign language to communicate. Little by little there are new positive discoveries which help people with disability, and that's awesome.
Claudia P.
This new MobileASL is absolutely fascinating. As an interpreter for the Deaf, I can see the many benefits of this communication device being a more assessable way for the Deaf community to more easily communicate with the world. Since ASL is considered the 3rd most used language in America, the hearing community can now more fully appreciate Deaf culture and learn ASL. The Deaf community can now more easily schedule their doctor appointments, call for emergency services, access community services, chat with their friends, and not have to worry about text messaging if English or other languages are a barrier to their preferred mode of communication (ASL). The only drawbacks I see at this point are: being disconnected while communicating, the expense of the device, the screen being too small to decipher what is being signed, and certain personnel using the device to communicate with the Deaf in emergency situations as opposed to calling for a certified interpreter.
Diana F.
This is the next step in communication for the deaf. It seemed to be such a big leap when TDD was introducted. Persons with hearing impairments and totally deaf have been able to successfully maintain employment with the TDD. Now with this innovation, one would think that this will be well received. Russell A.
Although this seems as the next big thing in not only a form of Assistive Tech for people with disabilities, but for the general public as well. The question is what this will cost as an add on. Because in the end this will be seen as an add on expense. Something that for an average American will be expensive for the general public, but for American’s with disabilities I am sure that the cost would be minimal, or at a lower scale then for non disabled individuals. Then there will be gray areas, in which the severity of a person’s disability, relation to other people family, spouse, friends who are commonly communicated with. I have had problems with my text messaging where I have gone over, exceedingly over my phone plan and have had to pay cover charges, sure charges, more and more money. Granted we are talking about texting which is 6 cense per every text message I go over my limit, but even a seemingly small sure charge can and does add up. Once the technology is figured out, it will be up to the pone companies, providers, to determine what it will cost the public and the people it was intended for. At which point I am sure there will be organizations which may fight the regulations, and policy’s created if they feel they are not taken into consideration for the every man to be allowed this intervention in communication. Solution? Allow notable ADA policy makers, and organizations to have say in curving cost, and packages to allow a broader rang of the intended special population “Deaf Community” in the way this is implemented in main stream cell phones/home phones.
Christopher W.
1/12
The mobile ASL phone is a great idea. As I was watching the ‘you tube’ video I was actually pretty impressed with the quality of the video that is being sent from each phone. The ASL phone for the Deaf community compared to text messaging capabilities is so much better. Text messaging its self it great for short questions and quick comments, but it is almost impossible to tell a story or be able to explain anything of depth. Have you ever had a miss communication over text messaging with some one, where you wrote a text one way in your head, but the way the person receiving the text interpreted the text with his/her own inflections changed the meaning all together? That is what is great about the ASL phone, people are able to communicate stories with expression and explain things over the phone much quicker and effectively than text messaging. I don’t know why they have not come up with it sooner. I just hope the cost of the phones and the cost the companies tend to add on as a service charger is not astronomical.
Cameron L.
It is great to learn of new advances in technology. As everyone one knows there are positive and negative points for this new technology. However, it is my opinion that unless people are pointing out such flaws to offer up a solution, I think that it would be important to focus more on the benefits. Technology can only take us so far, we as a society need to do our part and go the extra steps to look at how we can make this work for those who need it.
Cell phones lose signal house phone lose batteries but that does not mean that we don’t use them. I feel that knowing the flaws give us an advantage of knowing what measures we need to take to come up with a plauisle solution. At the very least I feel that many people will adapt the technology to their lives and find a way to overcome the shortcomings.
~Marlene H.
AWESOME!!! I really hope this makes it. This would be a great attribute to the deaf community and they would really appreciate technology like this. Not only will the deaf community gain from this but so will everyone else. Good bye texting and hello MobileASL!! Holly M.
It's amazing how the advances in technology are affecting the world, but most importantly the individuals with disabilities. I mean who would have imagine a phone that would allow the Deaf to communicate. The government should fund or continue funding projects like this one not only for the deaf community, but also for other disabilities. I believe the Mobile ASL will be a great hit and it will make communicating easier to the deaf community.
Mariam G.
This is awesome. Now, the deaf can have a phone too. That is so cool, and this shows how technology advances everyday, not only for un-disabled peorsons, but also for people with disabilites.
Alma D.
It is great that now the deaf are able to converse as well as others on cellphones. Yet I can't help but expect this technology to not only be used by the deaf community.
- Carlo G.
This is really cool! its so good to know that new ways of communicating are being brought about for the deaf. Just like that saying "the more the merrier." its better to have more options becasue every person is different and it might help communicate better.
(sorry forgot my name)
This is really cool! its so good to know that new ways of communicating are being brought about for the deaf. Just like that saying "the more the merrier." its better to have more options becasue every person is different and it might help communicate better.
Annette M.
IN today's world the cell phone has become a major need for all of us; we have grown very dependent of cell phones, everywhere you turn to you see someone on the cell...so to make cell phone (mobileASL)technology available to the deaf community next year will certainly be one giant step for all. I checked out the video on you tube in regards to mobileASL and I think it's going to be a huge hit no matter the cost!
Teresa E.
I totally agree with Cameron L. about what a great idea the Mobile ASL really is, I also was impressed with the quality of the video, and I also agree with Cameron that ASL will be quicker and more effective than text messaging.
Teresa E.
I believe that this is a great idea. I would have to say at first after reading this I asked myself, “What is the reason for creating this if texting is already around?” I looked more into this amazing software and learned the reasons why. There first obvious reason that I did not immediately recognize was when deaf and hard of hearing individuals use texting, they are not using their preferred language. The creation of MobileASL changes this completely. This group of University of Washington Engineers is implementing a lot of technology to develop this system. The video quality was good, but it looks like there were a couple of times that hand movement look a little blurred due to the quick hand movements. There is still opportunity for improvement, but the great thing is that technology advances so quickly I feel that it will be a short time before this system is up and running efficiently. I applaud this group for taking the time and effort to better the lives of others.
James D.
Well, definitely this project sounds very exiting. Technology has surly improved over the few years and this new cell phone has prove it. Luckily, the Deaf community has shown tremendous acceptance of communication devices in the past. Members of the Deaf community have definitely enjoy and utilized to the maximum devices like the video relay and text messaging. Now this new project combines both, life images of people communicating in sign language. Definitely this project will improve the quality of life of many deaf people. Communication will definitely take a positive turn. Deaf people will have the advantage of human “touch” by seeing their friends sign to them. Currently cell phones only offer text messaging, which limits communication to only those people that are educated and have reading and writing skills. In reality many members of the deaf community have little education and only few people know reading and writing. However, if this project opens its way in the market, education will have little impact. The only requirement in order to communicate will be knowing sign language ,which by the way, is the symbol of pried among the deaf community.
Mariana GG.
WOW it really sounds like a great instrument. most of the equipment has been text messaging. i think the deaf will but this equipment when it becomes available but i just hope that they do not put it on the side like hearing aids. we have a habit that we buy stuff and play with it for a while and then we get bored of it and forget where we left it. it will also help deaf in every day activies like attending appointment without an interpreter. interpreters are hard to schedule here in the rio grande valley. Angie K
Diana F, I really liked your post! If I am not mistaken, Deaf individuals can get a $400.00 certificate from DARS to purchase a moble device for texting. It would be awesome for the Deaf to be able to use video relay services via this type of device. You could take Sorenson with you! Wohooo! I can imagine the day when a deaf person watches a cell pone while the hearing bank teller, right in front of him, speaks to an interpreter on their phone.
Diana F said, "The only drawbacks I see at this point are...the expense of the device, and certain personnel using the device to communicate with the Deaf in emergency situations as opposed to calling for a certified interpreter."
Margaret T.
Isn't technology great! Especially when it works. I think
MobileASL will be wonderful. The thing I appreciate most is that as great minds get together to improve the world for those with disabilities, they end up creating better things for everyone.
Another thought I had as I watched the YouTube video demonstration was that we all can learn from the deaf community when we talk to our friends we should stop what we are doing and take the time to really engage in the conversation, instead of talking while we drive because we are always in a hurry (me included) or even worse, trying to text while we drive (scary, but true) My biggest hope is that we all continue to strive to make our world a better for ALL.
Sylvia S.
Good job Diana, not only did you comment on the advantages of the device but you also pointed out the negatives such as cost. As rehab counselors we need to know the good and not so good news about different technologies.
-Elizabeth H.
I have to agree with Carlo not everyone will start using this new phone not only the deaf community.
Mariam G.
I think this is really cool!! It is about time they made some good use of this supposedly high tech cell phones. MobileASL will open up more opportunities for the Deaf culture. Currently the only good about cell phone for the Deaf is text messaging but even that gets tiring and annoying. It can also be confusing; there is nothing better than to have a face to face conversation with a person. There is more meaning and a better understanding of the others person’s feelings. Besides there being advantages to technology there are some disadvantages. I currently have trouble with my cell phone for simple task I just hope that these cell phones do not freeze up a lot like mine.
Crystal S.
7 of 12
This is a great way to eliminate some of the barriers deaf people face, when it comes to communicating over the phone. With this technology deaf peoples emergencies will be less stressful. It is also great that they have provided grants for such projects. This reminds us of the fact that the ability and desire is out their but is hidden away when their is no money to project such ideas. Such technology will bring more power to the deaf community, and hopefully more technology like this will come to reach more barriers within disabilities.
Laura S.
wow!! this is great!! having communication through cell phones for the deaf is a great idea! Interpretation for the deaf or hard of hearing is going to be a lot easier and faster for communicators/ translators. Its amazing how people can communicate with one another through such a small device. technology is growing so fast and will continue to grow through the years.
Joelia N.
I was never too fond of technology until I started dating my boyfriend and I started working for the department of information technology. I was hesitant to learn all the new gadgets and programs. Someone once told me, “either you learn or you simple stay behind.” Now, we don’t even need a computer to navigate the internet. We can simply do it from our hand helds. I have never rejected the concept of texting. It’s awesome to be able to communicate with someone when we are not able to pick up the phone and just talk. In my case, when we attend meetings or even just when we go to a place where talking may be rude, such as church, a funeral or wedding. Sometimes we say, I don’t even have to speak anymore, I can just text. However, when calling someone is simply easier and becomes frustrating when we can’t communicate what we need vocally. I can just imagine the frustration that hard of hearing people face. As I read this article, all these new technology ideas seem like an awesome alternative. I am glad that technology is able to be used to benefit others. Hopefully we don’t become a country the values technology more than the actual human contact and interaction. I say, if it makes your life easier, why not try it?
janneth a.
I think this is a wonderful thing! It is great to hear, like Carmen stated, that they are providing grants for projects like these. Today we hear about grants all the time and this is actually the first I hear about a grant like this. Yes, we have text messaging that enables Deaf people to communicate with others by telephone, but this is something that is made specifically for them. I think that it’s about time. I have always wanted to learn sign language, but never really had the time. I have a cousin who is not deaf, but hard of hearing and this would be a great way to communicate with him. I saw the youtube video and it’s really amazing. I’m sure that this is something that is going to take off once it is launched and I think it’s awesome.
Nancy C.
5 of 12
These type of works shows the willingness of society to work for people with disability, It can be a huge step towards the Deaf community. The Govt, funding shall come forward for projects like this, even the private funding shall come forwad. It is encouraging.
Puri. v
Technology is getting better and smarter everyday. We will see that technology has been advanced greatly over the years. Now to use a phone and ASL is great and will help keep those who are deaf and hard of hearing closer together. Before the deaf and hard of hearing only had texting as an option of communication and that was limiting because not all those who are deaf and hard of hearing are literate enough to only use texting. This is an excellent idea but can have its downs as well because not all those who are deaf and hard of hearing can sign. So they will have to learn that too. But instead of being a kill joy I am going to look at the optimism in this because now people who are deaf and hard of hearing will have more than one option. It makes me happy to see that technology is becoming this advanced because as I watched the you tube video the phone is definitely way advanced. I just happen to think that the cost might be very high and I hope that they do not do that to the phone because it would be affordable to very few and not everyone would have a chance to experience this.
-anisa c
I love this idea. I am always overjoyed to see when inventors can use technology to better the lives of people as a whole. This will really eliminate the long waits and inconveniences that TTY’s placed. What I would like to see is that they issue the software and maybe even the phone to eligible people in the Deaf community. Then we would really see a jump in technology helping people. It has practical uses for rehabilitation counselors as well. It would be much easier access to clients than waiting for a TTY or an appointment. All people should be able to “talk” for hours on the phone with whomever they please. With this software, I can actually see that happening. Celena M
I feel the deaf community is growing and more people are very acceptable of this particular disability. I feel several individuals are willing to learn sign language in order to communicate with others. I personally view useful technology is very rewarding and serves as a prominent tool to those in need. Therefore, I feel this newly developed software will help solve a communication barrier. I feel this technology is going to be a great hit and will be around for years to come.
Caleb B.
WOW! I think this is great for the deaf community. I really hope this makes it big, it'll be a great advantage for the deaf community and for anyone communicating with the deaf. I believe this is a great achievement and really hope it hits the market big, and is of great help for the the deaf and hearing communities to communicate with each other.
Rosario G.
I agree with Nancy, I too have not heard of a grant like this. This is a grant that keeps up with what is popular among all age groups to help the deaf community.
Crystal S.
This is just awsome this actually facilitates communication for people with disabilities a lot!..I am seriously amazed by how technology can really make peoples life so much easier!
-Brandon R.
I agree with Carmen G. on how this particular technology is not only going to benefit the deaf community, yet is going to benefit society as a whole. I feel this technology is going to be very useful and going to be around for years.
Caleb B.
wow...technology now a days is awesome! i just finished taking american sign language class at utpa and its amazing. sign language is a whole different world! its an amazing way of communication and to be able to communicate over the phone using asl would be a great advantage for all who use the language! even better then txt cuz u can actually see the face of the person your communicating with.
-gary
I agree with CarmenG. It is grat that technology is used for greater inclusion of people wih disabilities
Davidw
Wow! this is a great. It just comes to show how far technology has come through the years and things can only get better.
Jessica M.
I agree with Cris. when text messaging came out i believed it was a great advantage for the deaf community. But know the video camera is even better. Im glad they are providing funds for this project
Alex S
I think that this kind of cellphone will help people that is deaf to communicate, I remember that I saw this phones in the movie of Babel. And also reminds me to what we see in class about assistive technology.
Emma C.
i am glad to finally see something for the deaf, i think their culture is so intriguing and amazing i love seeing people sign its just amazing. Not to be mean, but why need video when you have texting which costs less, i may be a lil slow on pickin this up on why its a great idea. i mean texting itself causes people to be careless on the road and so one, now video hmmm.. I'm just saying and wondering. It is however nice to see peoples expressions and for the deaf community facial and body expressions is a major part in their culture so i can see how it will let the deaf get together in a technical way.
Crystal O.
wow technology is really out doing itself. this is a great invention but i cant wait to see what they come up with next.
Estefanita G.
This was a very smart idea. Since texting was a big hit for everybody, it was easy for the deaf to communicate with one another. But now that this was invented, its even better. Its in real time, so the person who is deaf will be able to see the other person as well as see what they are signing.
Sarah O.
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