Page 271 - Emerging Trends and Innovations in Web-Based Applications and Technologies

International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (IJTSRD)
Special Issue on Emerging Trends and Innovations in Web-Based Applications and Technologies
Available Online: www.ijtsrd.com e-ISSN: 2456 – 6470

Breaking Communication Barriers: Research on

Sign Language for Better Comprehension by the Deaf

Prathmesh Adhau , Prajwal Pawar , Prof. Anupam Chaube
3
2
1
1,2,3 Department of Science and Technology,
1,2,3 G H Raisoni College of Engineering and Management, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT with many regions lacking standardized systems for its
Communication is a fundamental aspect of human integration into education, public services, and workplaces.
interaction, yet for the deaf community, linguistic barriers This paper examines the importance of sign language as a
often impede their access to effective communication. Sign
language, a vital mode of interaction for the deaf, has legitimate linguistic form and its role in bridging
communication gaps. It highlights the evolution of sign
historically faced challenges in achieving widespread language over the centuries and explores contemporary
recognition and integration into public and private sectors. advancements in technology that aim to address these
This paper investigates the development and
implementation of sign language systems aimed at barriers. Additionally, the paper addresses socio-cultural
challenges that limit inclusivity and emphasizes the need for
enhancing understanding and inclusivity for the deaf multidisciplinary solutions involving education, policy
community. It explores the historical evolution of sign
language, the socio-cultural challenges in its adoption, and reforms, and technology development.
the technological advancements revolutionizing Period Key Events & Developments
communication for the deaf. Ancient Possible early forms of gestural
Recent innovations in artificial intelligence and machine Times communication; limited evidence.
learning have paved the way for real-time sign language Middle Ages Informal sign systems develop within
recognition systems, mobile applications, and wearable Deaf communities.
devices. These technologies leverage computer vision and 17th-18th Formalized sign systems emerge (e.g.,
natural language processing to bridge the communication Centuries Abbé de l'Epée's work in France).Early
gap between deaf and hearing individuals. Furthermore, schools for the deaf are established
educational initiatives promoting bilingual approaches— Growth of Deaf education and sign
combining sign and spoken languages—have shown 19th Century language use.Milan Conference (1880)
promise in fostering inclusivity. Despite these leads to a temporary decline in sign
advancements, obstacles such as limited linguistic datasets, language's prominence in education.
high costs of technology development, and the variability in Renewed interest in sign language
regional sign languages persist. 20th Century research (e.g., William Stokoe's ASL
dictionary).Rise of Deaf activism and
This study emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary cultural awareness
approach to tackle these challenges, combining
technological innovation with policy reforms and public II. Historical Evolution of Sign Language
awareness campaigns. Collaboration among researchers, The history of sign language reflects the broader struggle for
technologists, and policymakers is critical to developing recognition of the linguistic and cultural rights of the deaf
accessible and affordable solutions. Moreover, advocacy for community. Early accounts suggest that manual gestures
the legal recognition of sign languages globally can create a were used to communicate with deaf individuals in ancient
more inclusive society where deaf individuals can thrive societies, but these were often informal and lacked
without communication barriers. By highlighting areas for standardization. The formalization of sign language began in
future research and development, this paper aims to the 17th century, with notable milestones such as Charles-
contribute to a future where sign language systems are not Michel de l'Épée's creation of French Sign Language (LSF) in
only recognized but also celebrated as integral to human the 18th century, which laid the groundwork for modern
communication. sign languages.
In the 19th century, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet collaborated

KEYWORDS: Sign language, Deaf communication, Sign with Laurent Clerc to establish American Sign Language
language recognition, Real-time translation, Inclusivity. (ASL), which became a prominent mode of communication in
North America. Despite these advancements, many societies
I. INTRODUCTION promoted oralism—teaching deaf individuals to lip-read and
Language forms the foundation of human communication, speak—at the expense of sign language, thereby
enabling connection and interaction. For the deaf marginalizing its usage in educational and social contexts.
community, sign language is an essential tool that facilitates Recent decades have witnessed increased advocacy for sign
communication. However, various obstacles, such as the lack language recognition, with countries like New Zealand, South
of widespread knowledge of sign language and technological Africa, and Finland granting it official status. This recognition
limitations, have perpetuated communication gaps. Globally, has facilitated its inclusion in legal, educational, and public
sign language recognition and adoption vary significantly,

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