GALLAUDET U TO JOIN IN VIDEO RELAY SERVICE FOR DEAF - Gallaudet
U said it would partner with the developer of a video relay translation system to help
improve interpretation services for the nation's 28 million deaf and hard-of-hearing
people. The school, which offers over 50,000 hours of interpreting services every
year, will work with Sorenson Media to offer a free video relay service. The system
enables both deaf and hard-of-hearing users to place video relay calls through a
certified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter and broadband Internet
connection. The call is placed using the Sorenson VP-100 videophone appliance
and a TV or using a personal computer with Sorenson EnVision SL or Microsoft
NetMeeting video relay software and a Web camera. The Sorenson VRS Call
Center routes the incoming video relay calls to an available ASL interpreter. The
interpreter then contacts the hearing user via a standard phone line and relays the
conversation between the two parties. The system captures the facial expressions,
gestures, and emotions that are vital in sign language communication. Users can call
866-FAST-VRS toll-free to place a video relay call to deaf or hard-of-hearing
people. (Syllabus News Update for 29 Apr, 03)