Deaf and signing issues: Signing Avatar [XAUR]

[brewerj]

Signing avatar is not recommended at this time.

https://wfdeaf.org/news/resources/wfd-wasli-statement-use-signing-avatars/

[posting on behalf of @WDannels per message to public-apa]

[RealJoshue108]

@RealJoshue108 notes that the WFD recommendations do state that some contexts of use are acceptable and wonders if we distinguish between 'live signing' and the use of signing avatars for pre-recorded and non interactive communication? @WDannels

[RealJoshue108]

Further detail on clarification request https://lists.w3.org/Archives/Public/public-rqtf/2021May/0005.html

[RealJoshue108]

Needs further input - to be discussed at joint meeting.

[RealJoshue108]

@WDannels To prep for our meeting on Weds - I've drafted a potential requirement on the basis that any signing in XR would be neither live nor interactive - with a reference link to the WFD advice.

4.10 Text description transformation (non live or interactive)
User Need 10: A deaf or hard of hearing person, for whom English or any other written language, may not be their first language may have a preference for signing of text alternatives or equivalents.
REQ 10a: Allow object or item text descriptions to be presented to the user via a signing avatar (only when non-interactive).

NOTE: This is in line with the World Federation Of The Deaf guidance. [wfd-signing-avatars]

https://wfdeaf.org/news/resources/wfd-wasli-statement-use-signing-avatars/

[RealJoshue108]

@WDannels Based on our discussion last week I've updated the signing avatar user need / requirement with some draft text: Thoughts and comments welcome!

[RealJoshue108]

I've added @JaninaSajka suggestions but removed the specific details around the number of facial muscles etc. I think keeping them makes it looks like a requirement, and defining requirements for signing avatars would IMO be a separate user requirements document.

Currently, it is not possible to provide an accurate live interpretation via a signing avatar. In general, animated or digital signing avatars should be avoided as users find them less expressive than recorded video of humans who can convey the natural quality and skill provided by appropriately trained and qualified interpreters and translators. Therefore, uses of signed avatars should rely only on pre-recording of 'real people' who are trained and qualified interpreters and translators. See the concerns expressed by the WFD and WASLI 'Statement on Use of Signing Avatars'. [[wfd-wasli]]
However, we note this is an emerging field and exploration is encouraged to ensure the future development of quality signing avatars. This could be via building a signing avatar that provides a face with fully functioning muscular variables or can successfully parse the nuances of vocal expression.