Comparison of Three Computer Access Systems: Speech Recognition, Morse Code, and Scanning

Date of Graduation

Spring 2004

Degree

Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Department

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Committee Chair

Lisa Wood

Abstract

There are many available options for the person who is unable to use a keyboard and mouse to access the computer. Three of the most popular systems of alternative access are speech recognition, Morse code, and scanning. This study compared twelve normal adult participants' ability to produce two paragraphs using speech recognition, Morse code, and scanning. The two paragraphs were analyzed based on the percent of words correct and the time needed to complete a paragraph without mistakes. Three participants who were already proficient using Morse code were also incorporated into the study. The results of the first study found that participants achieved significantly faster rates using speech recognition and significantly more errors when using Morse code. Participants in the second study achieved similar rates using speech recognition and Morse code, and more errors using Morse code as compared to speech recognition and scanning.

Keywords

computer access, speech recognition, Morse code, scanning, augmentative and alternative communication

Subject Categories

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Copyright

© Kevin Stockton

Citation-only

Dissertation/Thesis

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