@inproceedings{mertzani:06013:sign-lang:lrec,
  author    = {Mertzani, Maria},
  title     = {Sign Language Learning through Asynchronous Computer Mediated Communication},
  pages     = {64--69},
  editor    = {Vettori, Chiara},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the {LREC2006} 2nd Workshop on the Representation and Processing of Sign Languages: Lexicographic Matters and Didactic Scenarios},
  maintitle = {5th International Conference on Language Resources and Evaluation ({LREC} 2006)},
  publisher = {{European Language Resources Association (ELRA)}},
  address   = {Genoa, Italy},
  day       = {28},
  month     = may,
  year      = {2006},
  language  = {english},
  url       = {https://www.sign-lang.uni-hamburg.de/lrec/pub/06013.html},
  abstract  = {Current research shows that CMC provides an excellent vehicle for L2 learning since it affords both teachers and learners to communicate in an authentic learning environment where negotiation of meaning in the target language can take place in the same way as in face-to-face interaction. As bandwidth networks become more developed, it is feasible to transmit sign language communication using digitised video. In this paper, I present SignLab, a virtual sign laboratory at the Centre for Deaf Studies (CDS), in Bristol University, U.K., developed through the use of `Panda' software. It is an asynchronous videoconferencing system developed for the learning of British Sign Language. In this paper, I discuss how SignLab changes the concept of traditional sign language teaching and learning in terms of course delivery, tutors' and students' online roles, course material and online communication and collaboration. At the end, I propose a framework based on constructivist and learner-centred principles that teachers may consider applying when teaching online.}
}

@inproceedings{mertzani:06018:sign-lang:lrec,
  author    = {Mertzani, Maria and Denmark, Clark and Day, Linda},
  title     = {Forming Sign Language Learning Environments in Cyberspace},
  pages     = {88--91},
  editor    = {Vettori, Chiara},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the {LREC2006} 2nd Workshop on the Representation and Processing of Sign Languages: Lexicographic Matters and Didactic Scenarios},
  maintitle = {5th International Conference on Language Resources and Evaluation ({LREC} 2006)},
  publisher = {{European Language Resources Association (ELRA)}},
  address   = {Genoa, Italy},
  day       = {28},
  month     = may,
  year      = {2006},
  language  = {english},
  url       = {https://www.sign-lang.uni-hamburg.de/lrec/pub/06018.html},
  abstract  = {In this paper we would like to present the way virtual learning environments (VLEs) are employed into the teaching and learning of British Sign Language (BSL) at the Centre for Deaf Studies of Bristol University, U.K. By considering cyberspace a culturally constructed environment where people can form different virtual communities, this paper will focus on the creation of a virtual learning community for the purposes of BSL learning. Both tutors and students have access and meet on two main websites: SignStation and DeafStation, from where they can retrieve authentic BSL material during their classes and interact through a videoconferencing software system, Panda. We describe the development of VLE and discuss the practices employed when meeting online in terms of instruction delivery and knowledge construction.}
}