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About
Using Speech Recognition Software:
When you're learning a new speech recognition program, take your time.
Remember that you're learning a new skill, and give yourself the time
to learn it well. The software gets more accurate over time because it
learns as you correct it, but if you don't train it correctly it doesn't
get better, which perpetuates a cycle of frustration and misrecognition.
With a fast computer and a few days to learn the software, you should
be able to get recognition rates above 95 percent and type 50 to 100 words
a minute or more including the time it takes to correct misrecognitions.
It is very important to take care of your voice when using dictation systems
because speech recognition is inherently hard on your voice, just like
sitting in front of a computer all day and typing on a keyboard is hard
on your hands, arms, shoulders and neck.
Keep hydrated (64 ounces of water every day, plus an extra 8 oz. for every
caffeinated coffee, soda, or tea you drink because caffeine dries you
out), keep relaxed, take breaks, sit up straight, make sure your monitor
height is adjusted correctly, breathe deeply and regularly, and pay attention
to supporting your voice with your breath. Taking breaks is extremely
important, both for your hands and your voice. Get in the habit of doing
a quick stretch every 10 to 15 minutes, and taking a 10 to 20 minute break
every hour, minimum. Set alarms if you have to.
If dictating makes you hoarse, see a doctor right away. Voice therapy
and breathing exercises can help you learn to use your voice better. It
also helps to tape record a session with your computer and listen. You'll
probably be able to tell where and how you're straining your voice.
This sounds a little silly, but it works: If you pretend the computer
is a small child who is trying to do what you say, but, understandably,
makes mistakes, especially when presented with a new task, you'll probably
be more patient with it. This, in turn, will keep frustration out of your
voice, which will both improve recognition and reduce voice strain. A
similar trick is to name your computer. It might also help to put a picture
of someone who makes you smile near the monitor.
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