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 sign language translation with the reality that most systems rely on predefined, structured announcements, highlighting the accessibility gap when situations are unexpected.

To many hearing people, this suggests:

“The system hears speech and translates it into sign language live.”

In reality, most systems today rely on:

• structured data

• predefined messages

• predictable announcements

  
  

This matters because accessibility is not about appearances. It’s about what works when things are unexpected.

False mental models are risky. Clarity protects Deaf people. Accuracy builds trust.

#Deaf #SignLanguage #Accessibility #InclusiveAI #ResponsibleAI

www.timscannell.co.uk