Techniques for WCAG 2.0

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G81: Providing a synchronized video of the sign language interpreter that can be displayed in a different viewport or overlaid on the image by the player


Applies to all synchronized media technologies that allow synchronization of multiple video streams

This technique relates to:


The objective of this technique is to allow users who cannot hear or read text rapidly to be able to access synchronized media material without affecting the presentation of the material for all viewers.


This technique accomplishes this by providing the sign language interpretation as a separate video stream that is synchronized with the original video stream. Depending on the player, this secondary video stream can be overlaid on top of the original video or displayed in a separate window. It may also be possible to enlarge the sign language interpreter separately from the original video to make it easier to read the hand, body and facial movements of the signer.

NOTE: Since sign language is not usually a signed version of the printed language, the author has to decide which sign language to include. Usually the sign language of the primary audience would be used. If intended for multiple audiences, multiple languages may be used. See advisory technique for multiple sign languages.


Example 1

Example 1: A university provides a synchronized sign language interpreter video stream that can be displayed, at the viewer's option, along with any of their education programs.


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  1. Enable the display of the sign-language window in the player.


  3. Check to see if there is a sign language interpreter on screen or in a separate window.

  4. Check to see that dialogue and important sounds are being conveyed by the interpreter and are synchronized with the audio.

Expected Results