Assessing the need for a wearable sign language recognition device for deaf individuals: Results from a national questionnaire

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to determine how sign language users perceive the sign language recognition (SLR) field, with a focus on gaining perspectives from members of the Canadian Deaf community. A questionnaire consisting of a series of rating and open-ended questions was used to gather perspectives and insights related to a hypothetical SLR device. The survey was distributed to members of the Deaf community, family and friends of Deaf individuals, and service providers, all of whom had some proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL). The average ratings provided by Deaf participants were distributed normally with a right-modal skew in the direction of the positive ratings. Six fundamental concerns about SLR technologies were identified from participants’ responses, with the most frequently cited pertaining to the technology’s feasibility. In descending order, participants ranked translation accuracy, speed, and comfort as the three most important design characteristics for potential SLR devices. Respondents identified many potential situations in which SLR devices could be used. For a SLR device to be user-centric and culturally appropriate, it is essential that future work in the field integrates perspectives from members of the Deaf community.

KEYWORDS:

• auditory impairment
• augmentative and alternative communication
• communication
• electronic aids to daily living
• sign language recognition
• survey research
• wearable sensors