Today's class was very interesting for me. I had the opportunity to be the volunteer for the Dragon Naturally Speaking program, which was very enlightening. I really enjoyed the chance to do the hands-on learning experience--it was easier for me to understand the concept of speech to text programs as a result. While the program seemed to require a lot of upfront work to make it more successful, I was impressed with it. It was strange, at first, especially given the fact that I was reading "Alice in Wonderland" for the text. My first go around revealed some of the program's quirks but, all-in-all, it was just a first run. As Rick stated, going in to correct the errors through the program would eliminate most of those mistakes in the future. If you don't go into the program to fix errors through the program, and choose to use the keyboard instead, then the program thinks it had 100% accuracy (and eventually gets worse in the long run).
I still would not prefer the software to typing for myself because I am quite adept at typing. However, it is encouraging to know that such technology is available to those who need it, and if I were to ever require such modifications in the future.
The second half of the class focused on AAC. It never occurred to me how much assessment goes into evaluating what a student's communication needs are and what system would benefit that child most. For instance, I was fascinated to know that most of the systems require some comprehension of symbols by those using it - therefore a need to assess an individual's ability to understand symbols and what kinds of symbols they understand best is neccessary. Just a few of the other things that are considered include things such as whether they can access that device in all environments and whether they can mobilize themselves to the system.
It was also fascinating to hear about the need to limit and specifically designate the amount of people who should be programming the system. Every single teacher should not have a part in this. It can be confusing and detrimental to the child if he cannot use the inputed vocabulary with ease. It is maddening that so much paperwork is necessary to appease the insurance companies to get the funding for this. It is such a beauracracy! I was troubled that even those people who could probably fork over the cash for devices without breaking a sweat go through the insurance process--because it is a way to get it paid for. But hey, that's an issue for a future radio show.
Tracy
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2 comments:
Tracy, I am glad you volunteered to be the reader for Dragon Naturally Speaking. I can see why this program is kept on the shelf. Although the intent is good, the product is questioanble. One has to have special talents to be able to have a vision of the document they want typed and then speak the document that includes all of the punctuation. If I did not have use of my hands, I would be frustrated trying to command the program to make my corrections.
I guess the program is a step forward and I will be positive about the product it provides.
Like James I was glad that you volunteered to be the reader. I am amazed at how clear and direct you had to be with this program. I think that it is a great idea and can help alot of people but you would have to get over the frustrations in the beginning.
I do feel that people that are use to dictating woudl do well with this program (doctors, lawyers).
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