Warhawk Weekly 5-20: AI sign language tool research; Softball season ends
AUM researchers introduce AI tool to interpret sign language
A faculty-student research team at AUM has developed an innovative artificial intelligence-powered tool designed to interpret hand gestures into text, making digital communication more inclusive for individuals with hearing or speech impairments.
The assistive technology, called Drishti — named after the Hindi word for “vision” — was created under the leadership of Tathagata Bhattacharya, assistant professor of computer science. Drishti enables users to communicate using sign language gestures through a standard computer or laptop webcam, eliminating the need for voice and requiring minimal keyboard input. Unlike many mainstream tools such as Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant, which rely heavily on voice commands or typing, Drishti leverages generative AI and large language models to deliver real-time, gesture-based interaction.
To develop the system, researchers collected and used over 100,000 images to train Drishti, ensuring high accuracy and adaptability across varied hand shapes and environmental conditions. Currently, Drishti recognizes the English alphabet (A-Z), digits (0-9), and basic functions such as “space” and “delete,” converting them instantly into text. The team aims to expand the tool’s capabilities to support additional languages and full sign language interpretation.
“Drishti primarily serves individuals with hearing or speech impairments by allowing them to perform tasks such as searching or typing,” said Bhattacharya. “Its adaptive design and minimal hardware requirements make it an accessible, practical solution for users across a wide range of digital environments.”
Softball season ends in NCAA Super Regional
After opening the NCAA Division II South Super Regional with an impressive win over No. 5 Tampa, seventh-ranked AUM was eliminated from postseason play by back-to-back losses last Friday.
The Warhawks opened the double-elimination pairing with a 5-0 win on Thursday before falling 5-0 in each of Friday’s contests. AUM ended the season with plenty of highlights, reaching NCAA Tournament play for the fifth consecutive year, making the Super Regional for the fourth straight season, topping the 40-win mark for the 10th time in program history and finishing 41-13.
AUM coach Scottie Wilkes earned her 125th career win as head coach, while outfielder Chloe Baynes became AUM’s all-time hit leader with 237 career hits.
Summer camps provide creative learning outlets
Need a summer outlet for your son or daughter? AUM’s summer camp offerings for middle school and high school learners offer a blend of scientific inquiry and artistic creativity.
Options for middle school and high school students include a free STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) Camp and other opportunities specializing in video game storytelling and character development, digital photography, digital illustration, computer science and debate and public speaking.
Diving into data analytics
Make sense of the story Big Data is telling you by enrolling in our Data Analytics & Statistical Modeling certification program. It’s perfect for professionals and students who are interested in building expertise in data visualization, decision science and statistical analysis and modeling.
Space is limited for this 8-week program offered by AUM Continuing Education. AUM students and employees can take the program for a discounted rate of $499.
Row, row, row your boat
AUM’s Office of Collaborative Partnerships is hoping to make some waves at the 11th Annual Montgomery Dragon Boat Festival with the help of students, faculty and staff. The university is putting together a crew of 20 rowers and five alternates to represent AUM in the event, which will be held on Saturday, June 14, at 8:30 a.m. at Riverfront Park.
So far, the team has secured eight rowers and three volunteers but needs your help to complete the crew.
Don’t miss out on campus events
There’s an easy way to keep up with all of the fun events offered on our campus. Enroll in AUM365 and get the 4-1-1 from Curtiss The Warhawk himself. Text curti$$ to 334-398-6025 to receive reminders about upcoming happening.
