Project SignLink - Video Channel Between Schools for the Deaf
Project Proposal for the ZGNL - Collaboration with Daniil Umanski
Ljubljana 2010
Concept
In this project, we aim at creating a video network between several schools for deaf and hard of hearing children. The project will allow children from different schools to communicate freely with each other by means of an open video channel. The goal of the project is to stimulate children to communicate with others in a spontaneous, creative, and enjoyable way. Since no audio communication is involved, children are encouraged to use sign language to communicate. Furthermore, in a situation of an international video link, children are challenged to use their imagination and experiment together with their peers in another country in finding a new common language.
Interaction
Since the SignLink is created with an original software, it contains various 'video-mirror-games'. In these games, the video image captured in one location can be processed in real-time to create various effects. The image can also be combined with the image received from the linked location in order to create different composite images. The ability to affect the image with movements is expected to stimulate children to interact with their distant peers and make the experience of social contact more playful. A number of therapeutic sensory environments for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders include a similar interactive 'video-wall' to stimulate children to explore the space and teach action-reaction behaviors.
Technical Setup
In each location, a computer system will be installed, consisting of a screen, a web-camera, and a computer with a fast Internet connection. The system will allow a real-time broadcasting of video from one location to any of the other locations in the SignLink network. The installation of the system will be carried out in close collaboration with the technical staff of the school. The costs of installation depend on the equipment available in the school.
Educational and Experimental Potential
The experience with SignLink can provide a number of valuable resources for education and research concerning sign languages and other communication patterns of the hard of hearing children. For example, video segments of children interacting with SignLink can be used (with appropriate permission, of course) as tutorial material for students of special education programs. Creating a situation in which children from different countries are faced with the challenge of finding a new way to communicate through SignLink can provide a unique opportunity to witness a process of language acquisition and perhaps even language emergence. Such observation can be of great interest to linguists and developmental psychologists.