Speech Recognition Technology for the Disabled

Voice Transcription Software for Students with Disabilities

Sep 7, 2009 Victoria Nicks

Students with disabilities depend on assistive technology products, such as voice transcription software, to improve the educational experience.

In the past, students with disabilities were forced to rely on fellow students for assistance with notes, and had difficulty expressing thoughts or questions during class. Other disabled students were unable to pursue their educational goals due to their medical limitations. Current artificial intelligence advances in natural language processing (NLP) give these students the ability to achieve their dreams with speech recognition technology.

Natural Language Processing

Natural language processing, also known as NLP, is the process by which a computer program interprets human input into a format that the program can manipulate. This type of program can be used for a wide variety of purposes, and can process input in the form of typed commands or voice commands. The NLP software program requires a large database of potential words and sounds, and can be customized to recognize words or text in a particular format.

Voice Transcription Software

Voice transcription software uses speech recognition technology to process voice inputs as needed. This technology can be used for two purposes. First, a student can use voice transcription software to record a classroom lecture as text for later studying. This is a useful assistive technology product for a disabled student who has difficulty taking notes, or who has hearing limitations. Second, speech recognition technology is helpful for students that have limited hand movement, and need to compose homework assignments or term papers.

Free Voice Recognition Software

Currently, most versions of Windows come with voice recognition capabilities. It is also possible to download and install voice dictation software, called a Speech Recognition Engine, for free from Microsoft, if it has not already been installed on the destination system. This voice recognition software requires a high quality microphone, in order to achieve the best output.

Computer Speech Software

Microsoft text to speech voices can be configured easily on any computer that runs Windows XP or Windows Vista. This capability allows a Windows user to translate any text inputs into a voice output, played on the computer speakers. This feature, enabled on a notebook computer or laptop, gives a student with a speaking disability the chance to interact with other students, or even ask questions in class.

Assistive technology products, improved with natural language processing, have the capability of enhancing the educational experience of students with various challenges. Voice transcription software, available for free online, allows students to take notes, compose papers, and study for tests, while computer speech software, such as the Microsoft text to speech voices, allows students with speech difficulties to communicate during classes.

The copyright of the article Speech Recognition Technology for the Disabled in Artificial Intelligence is owned by Victoria Nicks. Permission to republish Speech Recognition Technology for the Disabled in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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