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Computerised record of BSL being developed

British Sign Language (BSL) is changing quickly, with lots of different variations across the UK.

Researchers are now going to collect video recordings of sign language data that can be stored and accessed online. Data will be collected from 240 or more native and near native deaf signers of BSL from eight sites across the UK.

the first national web based publicly accessible BSL corpus

The record will make it possible to investigate variation and change in the vocabulary and grammar of BSL and relate it to social factors, such as a signer's regional background, age or social class.

Professor Bencie Woll, DCAL Centre Director said ‘I am delighted that ESRC have chosen to fund this exciting project. We will be creating the first national web based publicly accessible BSL corpus that will become essential for sign language research and teaching in the years to come’

For more information contact:

Deafness Cognition and Language (DCAL) - Liz Daone on 01227 275998 or 07808 957 414 or at dcalcomms@ucl.ac.uk

Notes to editors

1. Deafness Cognition and Language (DCAL) Research Centre is based at University College London. DCAL is a known world wide as a centre for research on BSL. The centre brings together leading Deaf and hearing researchers in the fields of sign linguistics, psychology, and neuroscience.

2. This project was awarded £1,200,000 from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). ESRC is the UK's largest funding agency for research and postgraduate training relating to social and economic issues. It supports independent, high quality research relevant to business, the public sector and voluntary organisations. (external link, opens new browser window)

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