Frequently Asked Questions

+ I would LOVE to get posters, postcards, and stickers for my class! Can I?

Absolutely! We have limited edition 19x27 posters of many of our apps, including: The Baobab, The Blue Lobster, The Little Airplane That Could, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and The Solar System. Get them before they run out! We also have postcards and stickers (as supplies last); ask away!

+ What is Motion Light Lab?

Motion Light Lab ("ML2" for short) is the creative genius behind this program. Motion Light Lab is one of four hubs of Visual Language and Visual Learning; we design resources for children guided (and directed) by the research foundations made by the VL2 center. VL2 Storybook Apps are designed based on fundamental research on reading - it is our goal and intention to provide deaf children with rich literature material through giving them strong ASL models and engaging story plot lines to read. You can read up more on Motion Light Lab's work here.

+ What kind of equipment do I need to create my own app with?

You will need a Mac to work on the Storybook Creator, as it runs on Xcode. Xcode is a native Apple application used to create apps. Please note that you do NOT need an iPad to run the Storybook Creator. You can view your app (in development) through the iOS Simulator (included in Xcode). We recommend Mac laptops or desktops 2014 or newer.

+ How can I get Xcode?

You can download Xcode for free from the App Store.

+ Can I make Android-version storybook apps with the Storybook Creator?

No, you cannot at this time. Storybook Creator creates apps for iPad only. We are working to offer Storybook Creator for Android, but we are still in development. Check back soon!

+ Can I make storybook apps for iPhone with the Storybook Creator?

No. Our current version of Storybook Creator supports iPad only - in all formats: Mini, Retina, and Pro.

+ Do you support other languages?

Yes, the Storybook Creator supports different languages including different characters. Our most popular app, The Baobab, has been translated into 5+ languages and counting!. We also have other apps that have been translated into other languages, which can all be found in our Global Digital Library.

+ I would like to translate VL2 Storybook Apps into another sign language. How can I do this?

Please email Conrad Baer (conrad.baer@gallaudet.edu) to discuss further details.

+ Do you provide training and support?

Yes! We are currently training our 2021 cohort. Please consider applying for our next cohort if you meet the criteria and are interested — check back later for updates! Otherwise, if your organization is interested in discussing partnership, with customized training, please get in touch with us. See the above email address.

+ Can I add audio to my apps?

Yes, you can add audio (voice-over or background music) to the video components of the app.

+ Can I download the Storybook Creator?

We currently offer Storybook Creator to participants in our training program, but if you are interested in using the Storybook Creator, please get in touch with us.