SignVET – Gateway to Equity: engaging deaf students into VET

Objectives
Vocational training is rarely offered in national sign language which is a barrier preventing deaf students from proceeding studies. SignVET aims to empower VET Schools to provide course materials in national sign language, fostering inclusive learning environments for all.
The objectives of the project are (A) equip teachers to translate course material to national sign language, (B) improve the access of the deaf to course materials and (C) promote sign language skills in hearing students.

Activities
We will design a methodology and create the tools to create semi-automatic sign language translations of digital content, we will train teachers to apply this methodology and use the tools, we will develop pilot courses, evaluate the results, review and refine all the process, while stimulating multiplier effects to escalate the use of the SignVET technology to deliver sign language translations of digital educational content in VET.

Impact
At project completion, we will have courses translated into partners’ national sign languages, a methodology, the tools, and the trained people to escalate this approach to the European VET eco-system. The SignVET technology will be presented and discussed in hands-on workshops. Interested teachers will be able to attend training sessions in-person or online. We will advocate for the integration of sign language accessibility measures into VET education policies and national guidelines.