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Tim Scannell, Accessibility Consultant:
Enhancing Access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by Focusing on Sign Language, Digital Accessibility, and Information Access for Everyone.
From Concerns to Conversations: Reflections on a Changing Sign Language AI Landscape
Thank you to the European Union of the Deaf (EUD) for bringing these important discussions into the public conversation. EUD's Linkedin Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/european-union-of-the-deaf_deafrights-signlanguage-ai-activity-7468595259296497666-_fR2?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAfVDxEBUlYb7g-FMydDz_Dy9BiPrexkXwM Over the past year, I have devoted a significant amount of time to reading research papers, books, reports, conference presentations
Tim Scannell
6 days ago3 min read
AI with Sign Language Must Be Deaf-Led, Independent, and Accountable
A welcome step from WFD This morning, I welcomed the WFD (World Federation of the Deaf) LinkedIn post about its Ad Hoc Group on Artificial Intelligence. I praise WFD for recognising that AI must be approached through human rights, accessibility, inclusion, and sign language perspectives. That is an important step forward. I hope this leads to trusted global leadership and real protection for Deaf communities as AI continues to develop at speed. Looking for country-level actio
Tim Scannell
Apr 16 min read
The Clarification: What “Real-Time Generative AI” Actually Means
“Real-time generative AI” is often misunderstood. Real-time = fast response Generative = creates output AI = automated decision-making software Put together, real-time generative AI means: ➡️ The system can generate content immediately when triggered. What it does not automatically mean: ❌ It understands language ❌ It interprets meaning or intent ❌ It handles live, free-form communication ❌ It performs true translation ❌ It manages unexpected situations Speed ≠ understan
Tim Scannell
Jan 141 min read
The Problem (False Mental Model)
A false mental model has formed around “AI sign language translation.” Many people now believe that public systems (such as station screens) provide real-time sign language translation. But this belief does not match how most of these systems actually work. This false mental model has formed because: The word “real-time” is used The label “AI” is applied Signed output appears instantly and looks like language An infographic contrasting the false belief that AI provides live
Tim Scannell
Jan 131 min read
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