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As founder of DISCS (Disabled Individuals Suggesting Computer Solutions), I
have encountered many disabled people who wish to use voice recognition as
their main input device. These people have all types of and disabilities such
as low vision, carpal tunnel syndrome, paralysis (as in my case), speech
disorders, learning disabilities, etc.
Many of the users cannot keep up with the continuous speech, and the learning
curve seems to be greater for NaturallySpeaking for than DragonDictate. Also
those of us with inability to keyboard tend to like the DragonDictate
(navigation). My biggest problem is switching between the two, and until
that improves as well as recognition in other programs, I think we will need
support or end up improvising.
Another issue is that my parent organization, ACES (Adaptive Computer
Empowerment Services) obtains, reconditions, adapts, and gives computers to
low income disabled individuals, and helps train them in basic computer
usage. We are a 100 percent volunteer force using donated equipment, and
cannot afford state-of-the-art software.
Thanks for bringing this up.
Dr. Sarah M. Young,
Host, The Mind, Body, & Spirit Show
gNAt wrote:
> I am really sorry to hear that Dragon Systems is discontinuing support
> of discrete speech. Although I realize it is outdated technology, it
> certainly still has its uses.
>
> First of all, are those people who just can't afford a system capable of
> running continuous speech. I realize even discrete speech can be
> expensive, but it can't really be compared to the cost of a new system.
> Many school districts are certainly in this category.
>
> Also there are those of us with disabilities, also many many times in
> the above category, who might even find discrete speech more useful or
> find continuous speech something of an overkill. The ability to speak
> continuously obviously depends heavily on the ability to speak
> continuously in the first place. I am not sure I would be unable to use
> continuous speech, but I am definitely seeing a marked difference in my
> ability to find the correct word in a reliable way. Since I have a
> learning disability which affects my ability to find words when I need
> them, a little pause never hurts!
>
> Any comments anyone?
>
> --gNAt
>
> "You don't get older, you just find it harder to get up off the
> floor."
> Jane's Law no. 21
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