Netflix Introduces ASL Interpretations for a Variety of Children’s Shows and Films
The streaming service has partnered with SignUp Media.
Netflix is set to introduce American Sign Language (ASL) interpretations across a vast selection of family-friendly content, comprising 73 different titles and hundreds of hours of programming. This initiative includes both original series and licensed films.
Among the highlighted offerings are popular titles such as Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, Pokémon Horizons, Octonauts, and The Magic School Bus Rides Again. Notable films such as Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio and Spider-Man: Homecoming will also feature ASL interpretations.
This move is made possible through a collaboration with SignUp Media, a company that specializes in providing online sign language interpretations. Their technology functions as a Google Chrome extension, allowing users to install it and access a sign language interpreter in a separate window. This method differs from other streaming platforms, which typically offer ASL for specific titles directly within their applications.
Research suggests that while captions are beneficial for adults, they may not serve children as effectively. A study has shown that hearing-impaired children often perform below expectations in literacy assessments compared to their hearing peers.
Earlier this year, SignUp Media gained attention for its Oscars Project, which offered ASL interpretations for every best picture nominee from the recent Academy Awards.
