Mobile apps are being designed, developed and coded every day all over the world. With artificial intelligence (AI) becoming increasingly popular, you could say anything is possible.
The likes of DuoLingo and Babbel are taking the world of learning languages to a whole new level.
However, when it comes to learning signed languages such as BSL, what roles does technology play, and are there any apps out there that can speed up the process?
Read on, as we answer the question: ‘are there any BSL translating apps and are they any good?’.
How AI could play a significant role in BSL translation and interpretation
AI technology is playing an increasingly important role in many walks of life.
So, it’s not surprising that more and more technology companies are turning to AI to develop new solutions to help make people’s lives easier.
However, it’s not just the computer boffins in Silicon Valley who are making the most of this technology. People from all walks of life are learning to develop code and create innovative applications and solutions.
For example, in July 2021, a team of young girls from St Paul’s Girls’ School in London were awarded a £20,000 technology prize for their design of a two-way AI-enabled sign language translator, named ‘BSL: Educate-2-Translate’, in a competition backed by online retail giant Amazon.
The app aims to help Deaf and hearing users by translating BSL into spoken English, as well as translating spoken English into BSL videos.
This is a huge step in breaking down the barriers of communication and sheds light on the endless opportunities modern technology can provide for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people.
Why would I need a BSL interpreting app?
British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters provide the crucial service of facilitating communication between Deaf and hearing people. Becoming a fully qualified BSL interpreter is a specialist profession. It takes around seven years of training to master the language and techniques required to practice it effectively.
While friends or colleagues with basic signing skills can help you get by, a professional BSL interpreter can add critical detail, accuracy, and clarity of meaning.
Their role is to facilitate effective communication by simultaneously interpreting spoken English into a signed language and vice-versa to ensure all Deaf and hearing parties can understand each other. This is the same for all language interpreters facilitating speakers of different languages such as German, Italian, or French.
Having a BSL Interpreter, whether it’s for an interview process, large event, or business meeting, is a sure way to overcome any communication barriers between hearing and Deaf people.
But what can you do if you can’t get a face-to-face interpreter in time for your meeting, event or show? That’s where apps such as InterpretersLive! come in to save the day.
What is InterpretersLive! And how does it work?
InterpretersLive! aims to enable Deaf people to experience equality in life, by providing instant access to on-demand BSL interpreters and reducing barriers to everyday communication. Too many Deaf individuals are excluded and discriminated against, especially in the workplace. InterpretersLive! works to improve the communication between Deaf and Hearing people.
A number of large organisations already use InterpretersLive! to make for a more inclusive work environment or to provide access to their services.
Michelle Mirfin, HR manager at Sytner’s Mercedes-Benz division, is one of them.
She said: “One of Sytner’s team philosophies is to embrace diversity and inclusivity. So, to be able to incorporate the InterpretersLive! service within our Sytner Mercedes-Benz dealerships further supports our local deaf communities.
“The platform is easy for our staff and customers to use and removes communication barriers by enabling them to communicate in person straight away. It means we can fully support our deaf customers and provide them with the best experience possible.”
You can access InterpretersLive! from home, for work and for your organisation, and is available to download on your phone, tablet or desktop.
How can Sign Solutions help?
Effective communication is crucial for businesses and organisations of all sizes.
Technology has a key role to play in aiding communication between businesses, public sector organisations and Deaf or Hard of hearing customers and service users.
Video interpreting systems can give Deaf people the same instant access to products and services as hearing people. Sign language apps, meanwhile, can also help break down communication barriers and help raise awareness of Deaf issues and the problems a Deaf audience can face when trying to access services.
At Sign Solutions, as well as offering InterpretersLive!, we provide BSL interpreting and translation services, in-person or online, plus expert consultancy to help ensure your organisation is as accessible as possible. We can also provide a range of accredited communication professionals for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing users and employees, regardless of the type of business or organisation you operate.
To find out more, and for expert advice on which type of communication support will meet your needs, give us a call on 0843 178 0773, email bookings@signsolutions.uk.com or contact us via a BSL video interpreter.
