about us

Discover Our Mission, Team, and Inspirations

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.

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Our Team

The MAC Lab is a multidisciplinary team of professionals with expertise in fields such as linguistics, computer science, engineering, and deaf education. The MAC Lab team aims to advance the research on the deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind communities.

Our Mission

Our mission is to bridge the gap between technology and communication for the deaf and hard of hearing community. We strive to create innovative solutions that not only address the unique needs of our community but also contribute to a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone. By focusing on assistive technologies, sign language recognition, and accessible communication platforms, we aim to empower our community with tools and resources that enhance independence, communication, and social inclusion.

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Our Collaborations

The MAC Lab is actively engaged in collaborations with various people, organizations, companies, and academic institutions.

Our Impact

The work we do at the MAC Lab has the potential to transform lives. Through our research, we have developed technologies and tools that have already begun to make a difference in the everyday lives of deaf and hard of hearing individuals. We are proud of the impact our research has made and are committed to continuing our work towards a more accessible future.

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20+
Our dynamic team of staff and research partners, driving innovation in deaf-focused technology and language research.
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365
Every day brings new opportunities for advancing the boundaries of deaf-focused technology.
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10,000+
The estimated number of children and youth in the United States identified as deaf-blind.
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Infinite
The potential that arises when cutting-edge technology meets the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing community.
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Our Lab

Inside the MAC Lab: Pioneering Deaf-Focused Research and Technology

Diverse Expertise

Our team consists of professionals from linguistics, computer science, engineering, and deaf education, combining unique perspectives to drive innovation.

Assistive Technologies

We develop cutting-edge assistive technologies to enhance independence and communication for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, promoting a more inclusive world.

Sign Language Recognition

Our research focuses on advancing sign language recognition systems, facilitating seamless communication and breaking down barriers for our community.

Accessible Communication Platforms

We create accessible communication platforms, ensuring that deaf and hard of hearing individuals can fully engage with the world around them.

Collaborative Partnerships

We partner with academic institutions, tech companies, and organizations to leverage diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives for more impactful solutions.

Community Empowerment

Our mission goes beyond research; we aim to empower the deaf and hard of hearing community with resources, education, and opportunities for growth.

Our Work

Innovating Deaf-Focused Communication Solutions

Pioneering New Frontiers in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Research.

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Language Acquisition Across Modalities
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Protactile Language Research
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Cognition, Literacy, and Language Experience
Contact Us

We're Here to Connect and Assist

Thank you for your interest in the MAClab! We welcome your inquiries, collaboration opportunities, and feedback. Please reach out to us using the contact information provided, and our team will be delighted to connect with you.