Researchers are using computer-animation techniques, such as motion-capture, to make life-like computer avatars that can reliably and naturally translate written and spoken words into sign language, whether it's American Sign Language or that of another country. The signing avatars can also be used in apps and games to help deaf children get early exposure to language, which is critical for their cognitive development.

Kingsley Omosigho moved from Nigeria to the capital city of Australia 17 years ago. His son was born years later, and he wished to teach his son Benin, a language spoken in Nigeria. However, it was difficult to teach him, as everyone around him spoke English. So Mr. Omosigho developed a mobile app to help him learn the language.

There's a Czech proverb that says, "As many languages you know, as many times you are a human being." Like other multilingual speakers, people often think of themselves as a different person whenever they speak a different language. But that feeling has less to do with the structure of the languages themselves than with the personal associations they have with each one.

Youngsters and adults alike will benefit from a new tool designed to keep the Nlaka' pamux language alive and well in the Nicola Valley. The eight First Nations that make up the Citxw Nlaka' pamux Assembly (CNA) are each receiving six computers equipped with licenses to an online program designed to teach the language orally.