Closed captioning is a term commonly used in the context of television programming, movies, and video content. It refers to the process of displaying text on a screen that provides a written representation of the audio elements present in the content. Typically utilized by individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, closed captions serve as a means of conveying spoken dialogue, sound effects, music, and other audio cues that enhance the viewing experience.
The purpose of closed captioning is to ensure accessibility for people who may have difficulties perceiving or understanding spoken words. By presenting text in synchronization with the audio, closed captions enable individuals with hearing impairments to follow the plot, comprehend the dialogue, and fully engage with the audiovisual content. The captions are typically placed at the bottom of the screen, and they may be displayed in a specific font, size, and color for optimal readability.
Closed captioning is an invaluable tool for inclusion and equal access, breaking communication barriers for those who rely on textual representations of sound. It is often mandated by regulatory bodies in several countries, making it a legal requirement for broadcasters and content creators. With the advancements in technology, closed captioning has become more accurate and automated, utilizing speech recognition software and trained professionals to transcribe and time-sync audio. This ensures that closed captions are as comprehensive and precise as possible, providing an inclusive viewing experience for individuals with hearing impairments.
The term "closed caption" originated in the field of television broadcasting in the 1970s. "Caption" had been used to refer to printed text displayed on the screen to provide information or dialogue, but it was typically used for pre-recorded programs.
With advancements in technology, broadcasters sought a way to display text in real-time for live television, especially for the benefit of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. This led to the development of a closed captioning system in which text could be encoded into the television signal and decoded by a viewer's television set.
The word "closed" was used to distinguish this type of captioning from "open captioning" (also known as subtitles), which are permanently visible on the screen and cannot be turned off. Closed captioning could be activated or deactivated by the viewer, providing them with the choice to enable or disable the captions as needed.