We are always looking for ways to become more accessible for all. Our latest initiative, introduced by the Museum’s manager of Museum accessibility, Margie Makowski, includes bringing translations to the hard of hearing community.
CART stands for Communication Access Realtime Translation, a form of live captioning that provides real-time transcription of spoken words during lecture-based events, programs, meetings, or a live interaction with community members. CART captioning is typically done by a trained captioner who uses specialized software and equipment to convert speech into text as it happens during a program. The text is then displayed on a screen for viewers to read.
It benefits viewers because it allows for folks to read what a speaker or presenter is saying or communicating, thus making it accessible for visitors who are hard of hearing/ have a hearing disability. CART captioning also supports comprehension because it provides visual representation of a spoken word. This can be beneficial for folks who may have a cognitive disability because CART captioning provides a visual aid during lecture-based programs. All in all, CART captioning can enhance all visitors’ experiences because it makes communicating, understanding, and ultimately connection during programs at AAM more accessible.
It will be available at some upcoming Dynamic Conversations, including the March 22nd Dynamic Conversation: “Fearless Enthusiasms”: The Life and Art of the Remarkable Milly Johnstone!