A Mobile Communication System Designed for the Hearing-Impaired

摘要

This is a case study of the design of a communication system and its interfaces aimed at addressing the communication needs of the hearing-impaired. The design work is based on an in-depth investigation of the problems pertaining to mobile phone usage and general conversation difficulties of Korean deaf people. It was determined from this investigation that the technology-related issues of the hearing impaired are not limited to usability or accessibility, but arise from hindered executive actions and differing executive behaviors for achieving communication goals at varying levels of ability. Therefore the design study has developed a new approach to the unique communication needs of the hearing-impaired, as well as their behavioral patterns, and presents possible overall improvements in face-to-face and distance communication through mobile technology.