Class 5: Speaking to be Heard!
- Jun 6, 2017
- 2 min read
Today was a productive day, and for that, I am thankful! We continued on with Speech to Text (STT) technology and how wonderful it can be to enhance communication for those who struggle with gripping a pencil, typing on a keyboard, or for those with more severe physical disabilities. STT can also help students who have difficulties communicating ideas on paper.
Our first task was an extension (no pun intended) from last week's homework. In pairs, we had 30 minutes to further research two specific functions of Read & Write, which is an extension for Google Chrome. Sarah and I looked at the Screenshot Reader and Voice Notes in more depth. If you click on the each title, you will be directed to short videos on how to use each function!
Using the icon shown here, you can select specific text and have it read aloud. Also, you can select an image and have the image described aloud. Great for pin-pointing specific information, as well as obtaining information from images for the visually impaired. This can be used in Google Docs, as well as on the Internet.
Voice Notes allows users to voice record their comments in Google Docs, instead of having to type them. There is a one minute timer which you cannot t exceed. Once the recording is complete, hit 'insert' and the link to the recording of your question or comment will appear in the document. This is great for students who struggle with typing or getting their thoughts out via typing or writing. Also, if students are working together, it is an easy and effective way to communicate between each other.
Although I reviewed many of these functions on my own last week, it was really helpful to get hands on and listen to our classmates' presentations, as well. After all...
While investigating R&W on my own, I didn't really think about any limitations; however, upon further investigation it became more clear who this Google extension wouldn't work for. For example, those with vision impairments may struggle with using the screenshot reader as it could be difficult to select specific text. As for STT functions, if a student does not have knowledge of a subject area, they will not be able to communicate ideas. Again, Barbara always encourages us to think about the users and what will work best of them.
Our second activity of the morning had us finding impactful videos showing how people with varying disabilities are communicating. Sarah and I had to find a video of people with physical disabilities communicating. Take a look at what we found:
There are some many amazing assistive technologies out there helping to enhance the lives of those who cannot communicate in the traditional ways.
STT Brochure
Please see our STT brochure on the home page of my blog! Thanks :)
...Hard to believe there is only one class left! Until then, I will not only be working on my brochure, but I will be putting the finishing touches on my case study project!
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