BridgeApp: An Assistive Mobile Communication Application for the Deaf and Mute

Abstract

Multiple assistive technologies can help the deaf and mute such as speech-to-text, speech-to visual and sign language. In this study, an offline assistive mobile communication application is developed for the deaf, hard of hearing, mute, and person without disabilities. This can be used as a tool to break the barrier of communication between the people without disabilities and the deaf/mute. Both American Sign Language (ASL) and Filipino Sign Language (FSL) were applied in the developed system that will help the intended users communicate in their everyday activities. The developed system called “BridgeApp” were designed according to the gathered user need of a deaf community based on their specific everyday activity. A thorough system testing was conducted in order to make sure that the mobile app will be ready to use and will aid them in their day to day communication needs. The user acceptance testing results have proven that the system in this study can effectively assist in clear communication between both deaf and mute, as well as to those hearing and speaking individuals.