Improving Access to Bangla Sign Language Learning Through Digital Dictionary

In sustainable development, leaving no one behind stands as its core value. This is especially true to people with disabilities, including those with hearing impairments. In this light, an open access digital dictionary of Bangla sign language can help make  sign language learning more accessible and enable effective communication with and among those who have speech and hearing impairments.

Bridging Communication

More than 430 million people worldwide have disabling hearing impairments. Therefore, providing inclusive access to communication is crucial for creating meaningful connections among all members of society. As such, sign language serves as a vital bridge for communication among those in Deaf communities or are hearing impaired.

There is no sign language that can be understood universally. Like any spoken language, sign language varies and evolves based on the communities in which it is used. 

In Bangladesh, where 9.6% of the population has disabling hearing impairment, they use Bangla Sign Language (BdSL) as primary means of communication among their communities. While digital learning resources for other sign languages often include videos, BdSL resources are largely limited to images. 

Digital Dictionary for Bangla Sign Language

Despite its important role, access to sign language education remains limited, especially in developing countries like Bangladesh. Additionally, there is minimal recognition and awareness of BdSL among the general public, which makes it difficult for users to access vital services such as healthcare and employment opportunities.

To improve access to sign language learning, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh launched an open-access digital dictionary specifically for BdSL. It is designed to bridge communication gaps between individuals who are speech or hearing impaired and those who wish to learn BdSL in order to communicate with them.

The resource is accessible through its website and mobile app. Learners can type a desired word into the search box. Once the results appear, they will see a video demonstrating how to perform the Bangla Sign Language for that word, along with its English and Bengali translations. Additionally, learners can search for words by browsing the categories section, which is organized by topics or word classes.

The resource encourages individuals to learn and raise awareness of the crucial role of sign language in breaking down barriers to engagement between the hearing and Deaf communities.

Fostering Inclusive Environment of Communication

Communication is essential to human life as it allows us to connect on a deeper level and even discuss the world’s urgent issues. Unfortunately, Deaf communities around the world and individuals with hearing impairments still face discrimination due to their different modes of communication and the public’s lack of collective awareness. Therefore, it is crucial to create accessible learning resources for sign language to foster an inclusive environment for communication that benefits everyone.

Editor: Nazalea Kusuma

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