Upgrading sign language tools to support 20,000 learners yearly: Cloud-based sustainable education

Improving the Viewing Experience Via Cloud Learning Materials

Please tell us about the circumstances that led to the decision to implement the e-learning system.

Mr. Akiyama:Our center publishes textbooks based on the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare’s training curriculum for sign language interpreters. The textbook published in 2014 was sold as a set that included a DVD containing video lessons.

However, in recent years, with the widespread adoption of the Internet and the ease of watching videos on smartphones, we decided we wanted to improve the viewing experience.

In light of these changes, discussions have begun regarding the implementation of a new system for the video materials included in the *Sign Language Instructor Training Textbook: Let’s Learn Sign Language, Let’s Speak in Sign Language (Completely Revised Edition)*, which was scheduled for publication in 2023, with a view to transitioning from DVD-based materials to cloud-based resources.

Before implementing the system, which operational tasks were particularly burdensome?

Mr. Takei:In terms of the challenges we faced when selling the textbook and DVD as a set, it was the inventory management aspect. When attaching the DVD to the book, we would have preferred to attach them in advance and keep them in stock, but since that would cause the book to lose its shape, we handled this task based on sales conditions.

Compared 8 Quotes: Budget Alignment and Concrete Proposal Were Decisive

How did you learn about learningBOX, and what was your selection process?

Mr. Akiyama:An officer of our organization introduced us to a Tokyo-based company, and we were referred to your company through a representative at that firm. In addition, we received quotes from a total of eight companies through referrals from various other contacts, which we then reviewed and compared.

As a result, since learningBOX met our budget requirements and its proposal was detailed and specific, we decided to proceed with its implementation.

The deciding factors from a budgetary perspective were the ability to keep initial investment costs low and the ability to add and update instructional materials in-house. We felt that the payment structure—which involves paying a commission based on actual usage after the materials are completed—was well-suited to our organization’s operational style.

What information did you find helpful on the learningBOX website?

Mr. Akiyama:This outlines the process from planning to completion of the cloud migration. Another key factor was that your company’s headquarters is located in Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture, which is close to our organization (in Kyoto City), making it easy to meet in person for consultations.

Building a Sign Language Hub: From Interpreter Training to Qualification Exams

Could you tell me about the background behind the establishment of the National Sign Language Training Center?

Mr. Akiyama:In 1998, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (now the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare) issued a notice titled “Regarding Training Curricula for Sign Language Assistants and Sign Language Interpreters” (Heisei 10, July 24, Shouki No. 63), systematically organizing the curricula for sign language assistant training programs and sign language interpreter training programs for the first time.

In response to this, the “All Japan Federation of the Deaf” established the “Preparatory Committee for the Sign Language Interpreter Training Institute” that same year to actively promote sign language interpreter training programs, marking the beginning of this initiative.

What was the process like from that point until the company was incorporated?

Mr. Akiyama:The following year, in 1999, the Federation of the Deaf collaborated with the “National Study Group on Sign Language Interpretation Issues” and the “Japan Association of Sign Language Interpreters” to formulate the “Basic Concept for a Sign Language Training Institute (tentative name).” Furthermore, following the 2000 amendment to the Social Welfare Act, which legally recognized sign language interpretation services as a Type II social welfare service, the three organizations began full-scale efforts to establish a social welfare corporation.

On October 4, 2001, prior to the organization’s incorporation, the “National Unified Examination for Sign Language Interpreters” was launched, and a nationwide system was established to enable registered sign language interpreters to serve as providers of sign language interpretation services. Subsequently, on January 31, 2002, the organization received approval for its establishment from the Minister of Health, Labor, and Welfare.

References.
■Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, “Regarding Training Curricula, etc., for Sign Language Aides and Sign Language Interpreters 
■Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, “Summary of the Act to Partially Amend the Social Welfare Services Act and Other Laws for the Promotion of Social Welfare 

Please tell me about your current specific business activities.

Mr. Akiyama:We primarily operate in three business areas. First, in the field of sign language interpretation, we conduct personnel training (workshops), administer the National Unified Sign Language Interpreter Examination, and conduct research on sign language. Second, we provide disability welfare services and specific consultation support services in accordance with the Comprehensive Support Act for Persons with Disabilities. Finally, as part of our public interest initiatives, we organize the National Sign Language Proficiency Test, promote the use of sign language, provide scholarship programs for study abroad, and operate the Kameoka City Living Consultation Support Center.

Smooth Launch Supported by Timely Consultations and Ongoing Communication

Did everything go smoothly from the implementation of learningBOX to the start of operations?

Mr. Akiyama:Since I asked questions whenever I didn't understand something, I didn't feel like I ran into any major obstacles.

I see you're also using the "EC" option, which allows you to sell content and process payments.

Mr. Akiyama:Since this is a learning resource used by approximately 20,000 people annually, with only two to three staff members assigned to it, it was clear that manual processes—such as verifying payments—would not be sufficient to handle the workload.

Please note that currently, “eCommerce"In addition to the ' ' option, in light of enhanced security and expanded usage, 'Enterprise"We also use the [...] option."

Enabling Instant Information Sharing Across Teams via the Cloud

Please tell us what you find convenient about using learningBOX.

Mr. Takei:Since approximately 20,000 people use the system each year, the nature of the inquiries we receive varies widely. For example, when a status is changed in the sales management interface, we make sure to record the history in the “Notes” field (Sales management). I think one of the unique advantages of the cloud is that it allows multiple staff members to instantly share customer information and respond appropriately.

How would you rate the customer support?

Mr. Takei:You always provide such thoughtful support. When I ask questions via email, you include images and links, which really helps me understand things better.

Are there any features you'd like to see or any suggestions for improvement?

Mr. Akiyama:I think it would be helpful to have features—such as those found in AI chatbots—that allow customers to ask questions about things they don’t understand while using the service, as well as features that help prevent duplicate purchases (mistakes).

Thank you for your valuable feedback. We will definitely discuss this internally.

Mobile-First Sign Language Platform Featuring 390 Video Modules

Please tell me about the services being offered using learningBOX.

Mr. Takei:This is a sign language video learning system. It consists of one course for students, which includes the introductory and basic levels of the “Sign Language Volunteer Training Course,” allowing students to study Lessons 1 through 40. The course contains 390 content items.

We are also creating content called “Homework” that uses quizzes to assess proficiency for each course. Since sign language is a language that involves movement, most of the content consists of videos.

What kind of people typically take this course?

Mr. Takei:Most of our participants are attendees of the “Sign Language Volunteer Training Courses” offered by municipalities across the country. Since some regions specify “high school students and older” as a prerequisite for these courses, there tend to be relatively few younger participants. Based on our experience handling inquiries, we get the impression that the majority of participants are middle-aged and older.

Please tell us what you focus on when creating content.

Mr. Takei:Since the course was designed with a focus on learning via smartphone, one key feature is that the video clips are relatively short. Another key point is that we’re expanding our content to allow learners to choose their own learning environment—such as sign language only or sign language plus Japanese.

Development is handled in-house and proceeds in parallel with text development; approximately two people are in charge of development, and three people manage the system.

What are the benefits of e-learning when it comes to learning sign language?

Mr. Takei:I think it’s definitely the fact that students can learn at their own pace. In fact, we’ve received a variety of feedback from students, such as, “It’s convenient because I can study anytime, anywhere,” “I find it helpful for preparing for and reviewing lessons,” and “I like that I can adjust the playback speed.”

Payment Tasks Cut to Under 10%: Elevating Educational Quality as the Ultimate Goal

What do you think has been the best part of implementing learningBOX?

Mr. Takei:I think it’s the fact that our students continue to study. When they send us feedback via email or phone—saying things like, “This course material is really great. I’ll do my best to learn sign language!”—it makes me feel glad we introduced it.

What changes did the participants and instructors experience?

Mr. Takei:Since there are still a certain number of participants who are not comfortable with ICT, it is essential to provide support until they have set up their systems.

At the same time, instructors who use this material have told us that “it has improved the effectiveness of their teaching.” We believe that by continuing to nurture this material—now in its third year—we can ensure it remains useful for learners of all ages.

By implementing the "EC" option, by how much have administrative tasks been reduced?

Mr. Akiyama:Since we haven’t previously sold the same educational materials under the same conditions, we can’t make a direct comparison; however, considering that two staff members previously had to verify payments for 20,000 people annually, we’ve managed to keep the estimated processing volume below 101 TP3T. That said, we do see a challenge in the time it takes to respond to inquiries from users who are not tech-savvy.

In addition, what other benefits have you noticed since implementing learningBOX?

Mr. Akiyama:The annual costs associated with server management and other aspects of implementation have been significant. However, there is no doubt that this has greatly contributed to improving the viewing experience for sign language educational materials. We believe it has been extremely beneficial to be able to develop educational materials with an eye toward the future.

Leveraging the Sign Language Promotion Act to Expand Our Hub Capabilities

Please share your outlook for the future.

Mr. Akiyama:Following the unanimous passage of the “Act on the Promotion of Measures Concerning Sign Language” (Sign Language Promotion Act) on June 18, Reiwa 7, and its promulgation and enforcement on June 25 of the same year, the national government and local governments are actively promoting initiatives to promote the learning of sign language.

In addition, as people are increasingly exposed to sign language through news programs, TV dramas, and movies, interest in sign language is growing both in Japan and abroad. We at the National Sign Language Training Center will continue to serve as a “hub for sign language” and strive to further enhance our programs, with a focus on training courses for sign language interpreters.

References.
■ Cabinet Office, “Promotion of Initiatives Related to Sign Language 

Why Not Start with a Simple Consultation?

Finally, could you share a message for those who are still on the fence about implementing this?

Mr. Akiyama:By implementing learningBOX, we were able to resolve the challenges we’d been facing with educational material development. If you’re considering implementing it but are still unsure, why not start by reaching out for a consultation? They’ll take your concerns seriously and provide you with the best possible solutions.

Thank you very much for your valuable insights!