This system requires a high-speed Internet connection and a device with a camera, such as a smartphone with a front facing camera or a computer with a webcam. Similar functionality is also available through several mobile apps, such as the Z5 Mobile app that allows Deaf and hard of hearing people to make and receive point-to-point calls to/from any videophone, as well as make and receive calls to hearing people using VRS.
In the home atmosphere, the family of a Deaf person will likely communicate with him or her through ASL, but there is more to family life than just conversing. The sounds of daily life convey a great deal of information to family members about what is happening. The opening and closing of a door signals that someone is entering or leaving; conversations among family members, even if another member is not directly addressed or involved, provide context about family matters and plans, the barking of a dog may indicate someone approaching. Previously, Deaf family members were not privy to much of these insights, but now a mobile app called Tap Tap helps hearing-impaired people to be aware of sounds in their environment. This app listens for sounds and alerts the user by vibrating and flashing. The sensitivity changes based on the noise level of ones surroundings, and it can be extremely useful, especially to alert the user of potentially dangerous situations, such as fire alarms.
It was interesting to learn that in Washington, D.C. there is a university dedicated entirely to promoting education for deaf and hard of hearing students. Gallaudet University was established in 1864 by an Act of Congress, and its charter was signed by President Abraham Lincoln. Visual learning is available to facilitate education for Deaf people; many lectures are in .
ASL and are recorded and readily available for viewing by students, who have access to the latest adaptive technologies for the hard of hearing.