100 Decibels

Tag: communication

  • Caption Designs Over the Years

    With the recent reactions from the Deaf community and advocates about how hearing-owned companies selling caption glasses as well as using Deaf influencers to sell their product, I had the time to mull it over on why this issue keeps happening again.

    I’m all for accessible and inclusive AI and technology but it appears many of these are repurposed.

    Let’s look at captions:

    I recall when captions first came out, my parents purchased a caption box for me. We use them by connecting the cable to the tv and switch channels using the caption box. I was able to enjoy television by reading the captions.

    Eventually, tv’s had captions installed in them and caption boxes were no longer needed.

    Then there are captions for videos online.

    Then there were auto-captions leading to rely on AI.

    Then it became a tool the masses could use in their smartphones to access information and conversations around them.

    Now, captions are implemented in glasses.

    With the rapid rise of technology going caption boxes to caption glasses, the one thing remains is the design of captions are still the same.

    I’m not a designer, just a Deaf consumer who consumed these products.

    Also, I communicate in ASL.

    Over the years, these captions give one-way access to information then folks took this as an attempt to access conversations but it only achieved one-way access. And not inclusion where Deaf folks can be part of the conversations in their language which is sign language.

    So, I implore folks exploring access and inclusion using AI or devices to take into consideration how to contribute and create true access and inclusion where people can have conversations and interact in their languages especially sign language.

    I have yet to see this happen.

  • Are Caption Glasses Truly Accessible for Deaf Individuals?

    There’s been recent buzz about caption glasses, with some in the Deaf community feeling they exploit rather than empower. As a Deaf individual who communicates in ASL, I wanted to share my perspective.

    What Caption Glasses Offer

    Caption glasses can provide one-way access to information—primarily converting spoken language into English captions. While this may be useful in some contexts, it doesn’t create an inclusive environment for ASL users like me. Conversations require two-way communication, and captions don’t allow me to contribute equally.

    Free or Affordable Alternatives

    Many free apps offer similar or even better voice-to-text capabilities:

    • Otter AI
    • Microsoft Translator
    • Google Transcribe
    • Apple Live Caption

    Other tools include:

    • Apple Notes
    • Google Docs
    • Cardzilla

    These apps are either free or far more affordable than the steep price of caption glasses.

    What’s Missing? Sign Language Access

    Relying solely on captions ignores the importance of sign language for full inclusivity. Tools like VRI On-Demand (Video Remote Interpreting) can bridge this gap, allowing real-time conversations in ASL.

    What’s Your Experience?

    Have you tried caption glasses or other tools? Do you know of accessible solutions that prioritize sign language? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

  • Skills You Need To Be A Better Communicator

    Learn these skills to be a better communicator:

    1. Listen actively:
      • Practice active listening by giving your full attention to the person speaking. This involves maintaining eye contact, asking questions, and responding appropriately.
    2. Be clear and concise:
      • Communicate clearly and concisely to avoid confusion or misunderstandings. Use simple language and avoid jargon or technical terms.
    3. Practice nonverbal communication:
      • Pay attention to your nonverbal communication as this can have a significant impact on how your message is received. Examples of nonverbal communication include body language and tone of voice.
    4. Use positive language:
      • Use positive language and avoid negative or confrontational language. This can help to create a more positive and constructive communication environment.
    5. Develop empathy:
      • Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and see the situation from their perspective. This can help you better understand their feelings and needs.
    6. Be open-minded:
      • Be open-minded and willing to consider different points of view. This can help to foster more effective communication and avoid misunderstandings.
    7. Practice writing skills:
      • Good writing skills are important for effective communication, especially in professional contexts. Practice writing clear and concise emails, reports, and other documents.
    8. Seek feedback:
      • Seek feedback from others to help you improve your communication skills. Ask for constructive criticism and be open to suggestions for improvement.

    In summary, improving communication skills involves active listening, clear and concise communication, nonverbal communication, positive language, empathy, open-mindedness, good writing skills, and seeking feedback.

    What skills will you take action on to be a better communicator? Comment below!