Myslang – a computer-aided malaysian sign language dictionary with instructions in myanmar language

Abstract

A dictionary is a reference source that provides meanings of words and other information. The use of a dictionary is essential in the learning of a language. Similarly, when learning sign language, learners also need a sign language dictionary. Myanmar students and expatriates in Malaysia need to learn Malaysian Sign Language because sometimes they need to communicate with deaf Malaysian friends and colleagues in their academic environment or working place. However, there are very few Malaysian Sign Language dictionaries available in the market.

This project aims to develop an electronic sign language dictionary with instructions in the Myanmar language. The development of this dictionary, known as MySLang, is targeted at the Myanmars who are hearing-impaired as well as the Myanmar students and expatriates in Malaysia who are interested to learn Malaysian Sign Language.

The signs in MySLang were developed based on the Malaysians’ social and cultural norms using the 3D Poser 6. Altogether, 215 words (signs) were developed together with meanings and sample sentences. Besides 3D computer graphics and animation technology, Visual Basic 6 was also used as the programming tool and Microsoft Access 2000 was used as the database management system to store the signs, meanings and the sample sentences.