We have already developed a system to train Deaf learners in computer literacy using mobile devices. We would now like to create an extended version of the system for the computers on which the Deaf learners practice and integrate it. While Deaf learners are fluent in a signed language they need to know a written language when acquiring computer literacy skills. Our aim is to allow Deaf people learn at their own pace and in turn reduce the need to interpret written text.

We have developed a mobile prototype that supports teaching computer literacy skills to Deaf people, using South African Sign Language (SASL) as the medium of instruction. We support Deaf people learning computer literacy skills using the International Computer Driving License (ICDL www.icdl.org.za) approved curriculum and e-learner developed by Computers 4 Kids (www.computers4kids.co.za). We now have a XML specification that is used to structure lesson content and is generated by the content authoring tool. The XML specification was an abstraction of the hierarchical structure of the e-learner manual. The current mobile client uses the XML specification and displays the e-learner contents as SASL videos and images.

Once the assets (SASL videos, images, lesson texts etc.) are created the system will manage them. For SASL videos and images to be meaningful, they need to be organized in a logical manner that reflects the e-learner lesson structure.

Your task will be to extend and integrate the mobile client as a better PC-based application.

The original work to produce the mobile system, develop the underlying theory and the authoring tool to produce content has been an ongoing project involving a number of students including Marshalan Reddy and George Ng’ethe. The details of the work can be found in George’s master thesis pubs.cs.uct.ac.za/archive/00001081.