Speech to text (STT) software is a type of assistive technology program that converts words that are spoken aloud to electronic written text to support increased demonstration of learning and independence. SST can also be referred to as dictation or Speech Recognition Programs.
• Directly instruct students on how to use available STT programs.
• Model effective strategies for learning, as teachers learn new programs along with students.
• Demonstrate STT regularly as part of whole class instructional lessons for various subjects, using a projector.
• Consider developing or providing basic instructions on how to access and get started on using the programs.
• Regularly require the use of STT programs for all students in various subject areas.
• Ensure use of STT for students with it listed as an accommodation in their IEP, for all reading tasks.
• Conference with small groups on the use of STT.
• Select student leaders to mentor other students on STT.
• Consider doing a trial of testing students’ written communication without STT and then with STT.
• Provide students with free down load information for home use of STT.
• Inform parents of STT programs and their benefits.
• Access school and board supports for additional resources and training on TTS.
Using a computer, laptop, tablet or cell phone, speech to text (STT) programs convert what the user says, using an external microphone or one built into the devise, into written text, without the use of a keyboard. STT is easy to use and are designed to respond to a wide range of voices, while voice recognition programs may programs require the user to train the program to recognize their voice. This is started when the user first accesses the program and during the initial few times of using the SST with the user correcting errors that the program may make. With increased usage, voice recognition errors are minimal. SST is a common accommodation on IEPs, replacing the need for scribing of oral answers and an allowed accommodation for EQAO testing.
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