Deaf Connections recently took part in a web based seminar, commonly known as a Webinar, to promote the benefits of Sign on Screen in an educational environment. We were asked to be involved by RSC, Regional Support Centre - Scotland South and West, who are funded by JISC - Joint Information Systems Committee.

JISC inspires UK colleges and universities in the innovative use of digital technologies, helping to maintain the UK’s position as a global leader in education. JISC provides:

• A world-class network - JANET

• Access to electronic resources

• New environments for learning, teaching and research

• Guidance on institutional change

• Advisory and consultancy services

• Regional support - JISC RSCs

RSC describe Sign on Screen as:

"An additional model of support which can augment existing communication support services currently on offer in colleges, universities, libraries and places of employment, SoS offers the opportunity for d/Deaf people to use an on-line video interpreting service as a means of communicating more easily with the hearing world. This service can support people who are BSL users, who have cochlear implants or indeed those who do not see themselves as part of the Deaf community but need communication support.

This model of communication may help provide an additional model of support in accessing BSL interpreters on a face to face basis, help manage the high costs of face to face BSL support or indeed assist in providing communication support in a varied and ever changing college or university timetables.

SoS is a resource, which would be of significant value in a learning environment but would also be a useful resource for libraries, reception desks and student services areas in colleges and universities and in community settings to ensure that they are making anticipatory arrangements in supporting d/Deaf customers and learners."

The article about Sign on Screen along with the webinar itself can be found on RSC's website:

RSC - Sign on Screen

A direct link to the Webinar recording can be found here:

RSC Webinar - Sign on Screen