Twelve UK publishers are using web technologies to present contemporary childrens’ books in sign language with audio, animation and text in a GBP1.5 million project to improve literacy levels among deaf children.
The project, www.signedstories.com, offers a free online library of signed books for deaf children to develop their literacy & language skills, whether signed or spoken, or both. Families and friends equally enjoy the stories.
Web technologies extend inclusion in this case, according to ITV, a major backer of the project. A director from the UK’s National Literacy Trust also confirmed that increased literacy levels encourage social inclusion and give children better economic opportunities once they are old enough to work.
Signed Stories is intended as an inclusive web space where children of all ages and abilities can enjoy reading, while learning English and improving their literacy levels. Teaching resources will also be added to the website.
A full press release on the initiative is available for download.
