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We're standing here in the Sorenson Language Communications Center-SLCC-the first building
designed with a "Visu-Centric" design that heightens the visual experience for the University
community. It also meets the LEED green building standard, so we're proud of that distinction.
On top of that, I'm excited to show you all the awesome technology in place here. We believe
in modeling how accessibility in buildings and public spaces can be done in a seamless
manner. As you walk around this building, I want you to observe our use of technology
and visual space. On the first level, you'll notice the semi-circular seating style bench:
This is to make sure everyone can see the presenter and audience members when they present.
There are Video Relay Service booths for you to make private calls-all operated by VRS
service providers. Additionally, you don't have to ask to turn on the captions on the
television-they're always on! The interactive screens in front of the elevators feature
videos-with a sign language "announcement" rather than audio, and they are accompanied
by text descriptions for those of us who may not understand, or are just learning sign
language.
That's one of the common themes of the SLCC: to increase interdisciplinary practice among
departments dedicated to issues pertaining to all forms of communications. These departments
include Communication Studies, American Sign Language/Deaf Studies, Linguistics, and the
Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences. Gallaudet is a leader in Deaf Studies and Visual Language
research, as it houses one of the nation’s six Science of Learning Centers, focusing
on Visual Learning, funded by the National Science Foundation, known as VL2.