Welcome to the MAC Lab, a research lab based in Gallaudet University's Linguistics Department. The MAC Lab includes a team of researchers led by Dr. Deanna Gagne. The research included in this lab focuses on language development, cognition, and atypical linguistic experiences.

The MAC Lab is a multidisciplinary team with expertise in linguistics and deaf education. The team focuses on research involving Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind communities.
We support Deaf and DeafBlind communities through research, resources, and scholarly publications focused on cognitive development.


The MAC Lab collaborates with individuals, organizations, and academic institutions.
The MAC Lab conducts research on communication and cognitive development in Deaf and DeafBlind communities, including development, testing, and analysis of tools and systems.

Our team brings together expertise in linguistics, computer science, engineering, and Deaf education, bringing different perspectives to explore language, communication, and learning.
We use technology and research methods to document, analyze, and better understand Protactile language and communication.
Our research explores the recognition, understanding, and development of Protactile language within DeafBlind communities.
Our research focuses on Protactile language, tactile communication, and how DeafBlind children acquire language through touch.
We partner with academic institutions, tech companies, and organizations to leverage diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives for more impactful solutions.
We work closely with Deaf and DeafBlind communities to ensure our research is informed by lived experiences and community perspectives.
Learning from DeafBlind communities through research on Protactile language
Thank you for your interest in the MAClab! We welcome your inquiries, collaboration opportunities, and feedback. Please reach out to us using the contact button provided, and our team will be delighted to connect with you.