The project aimed to create a centralised, user-friendly and accessible website that stores and brings together reliable information about Deaf culture, sign language and Deaf heritage. We wanted to improve inclusiveness and accessibility in adult education with information tailored to adult learners, by offering content in clear written languages as well as in national sign languages. We also aimed to build a bridge between Deaf and hearing communities through interactive learning elements, such as quizzes, and by raising awareness of sensitive sub-topics like anti-racism and minority discrimination. Finally, we aimed to ensure long-term quality and sustainability by developing clear quality and translation guidelines, so that new contributors can continue adding content after the project ends.
We applied for this project because information about Deaf culture and sign languages is often fragmented and scattered, and not easily accessible for Deaf people. Many resources are mainly available in spoken/written language, while Deaf signing adults specifically need information in a visual, accessible format. At the same time, persistent misconceptions among hearing people and professionals about Deaf people and sign language can contribute to exclusion and discrimination. SignBridge responds to these needs by building a central, open and freely accessible online knowledge platform (Deafpedia) about Deaf culture, sign language and cultural sensitivity, developed with and by Deaf professionals. The platform also promotes reuse and collaboration: organisations and experts can contribute new content through the established quality and translation guidelines and, where possible, link to their own information.