Page 272 - Emerging Trends and Innovations in Web-Based Applications and Technologies

International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (IJTSRD) @ www.ijtsrd.com eISSN: 2456-6470
domains, yet challenges persist in regions lacking formal Despite these advancements, challenges such as high costs,
support for deaf communities. limited datasets, and regional variations in sign language
hinder widespread adoption. Addressing these barriers
III. Technological Innovations in Sign Language requires collaboration among technologists, linguists, and
Systems
Technology has transformed how the deaf community policymakers.
interacts with the world, with innovations in artificial IV. Socio-Cultural Challenges and Opportunities
intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) driving Socio-cultural factors play a significant role in shaping the
significant advancements. Key developments include: adoption and acceptance of sign language. Negative
stereotypes, limited awareness, and inadequate institutional
1. Sign Language Recognition Systems: AI-powered support often isolate the deaf community. Moreover, the lack
systems leverage computer vision and natural language of education and training opportunities for both deaf
processing to translate sign language into text or speech. individuals and hearing people exacerbates these challenges.
These systems utilize cameras to capture hand
movements and facial expressions, converting them into Advocacy and awareness programs have emerged as critical
meaningful communication. Examples include Google's tools for addressing these issues. Bilingual education models
Teachable Machine and Microsoft’s Azure Kinect-based that integrate sign and spoken languages have shown
recognition platforms. promise in fostering inclusivity. Media representation of deaf
individuals and sign language in films, television, and online
2. Real-Time Translation Devices: Wearable devices, platforms has also contributed to increased visibility and
such as SignAloud gloves, and mobile applications like acceptance.
"HandTalk," enable real-time translation between sign
language and spoken language. These tools facilitate Opportunities for progress include:
seamless interaction between deaf and hearing Ø Promoting sign language education for hearing
individuals, fostering inclusivity in social and individuals to build bridges of communication.
professional settings. Ø Encouraging governments to adopt policies supporting
the official recognition of regional sign languages.
3. Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR): Immersive Ø Hosting workshops and community events to raise
technologies like VR and AR are being utilized to teach awareness and combat stereotypes.
and practice sign language, offering engaging
environments for both deaf and hearing individuals. Sustained effort is necessary to ensure that sign language is
These tools also provide training opportunities for viewed not merely as a tool for communication but as a vital
educators and interpreters. element of cultural identity and human expression.

V. Future Research Directions 3. Cross-Linguistic Studies: Research comparing different
Future research must address gaps in technology, education, sign languages can uncover universal patterns and
and policy to create inclusive solutions for the deaf inform the development of interoperable systems.
community. Key areas include: 4. User-Centric Design: Prioritizing user feedback in the
1. Expanding Linguistic Databases: Developing
comprehensive datasets that include diverse regional design of assistive technologies can enhance usability
and adoption.
sign languages and dialects is essential for improving the
accuracy of AI-driven recognition systems. 5. Policy Reforms: Advocating for the global recognition
of sign languages and the inclusion of sign language
2. Designing Cost-Effective Tools: Creating affordable
and accessible devices for low-resource settings can help education in mainstream curricula can foster societal
inclusivity.
underserved communities benefit from technological
advancements.

IJTSRD | Special Issue on Emerging Trends and Innovations in Web-Based Applications and Technologies Page 262