Description:Dragon NaturallySpeaking is a speech recognition program that enables users to dictate to a computer and control computer programs using voice commands; it is particularly useful to individuals who have limited or no use of their hands. Dragon NaturallySpeaking understands natural, continuous speech.When dictating, users speak in full sentences, with no need to pause between words. NaturallySpeaking does need to be trained to recognize each user's individual voice patterns. This training begins with approximately five minutes of reading and continues over time as a user corrects mistakes that NaturallySpeaking makes. Because initial training is required, job seekers will need assistance in beginning to use NaturallySpeaking. NaturallySpeaking also requires users to be careful while they dictate, avoiding unessential words and speaking in fairly long, thought-out phrases. Users must also learn the specific commands need to control programs and operate NaturallySpeaking. Background noise can also be a problem, and it may not be possible to use NaturallySpeaking in a busy Resource Room. Installation:After installing NaturallySpeaking, it will be necessary to attach the included noise canceling headset microphone. The microphone should be plugged into the microphone jack of the computer's sound card (often red or pink). The microphone condenser should be positioned about an inch from the corner of the user's mouth. The microphone may be directional - be sure to check for a red mark or other indicator and make sure that is pointing toward the user's mouth. Operation:Initial TrainingInitial training takes only about five minutes. During training, the user will read text from the screen. Several choices are available, but "Talking to your Computer" is recommended as it also provides some tips on how to use NaturallySpeaking. TutorialNaturallySpeaking includes a helpful tutorial. Open NaturallySpeaking's Help menu and select Tutorial. Multiple UsersEach user will have a voice file set up under his or her name. It is essential that users make sure their own voice files are loaded when they use NaturallySpeaking. NaturallySpeaking will present an "Open User" dialog box when starting. At this screen select the appropriate user name and click Open. If it is necessary to switch users while NaturallySpeaking is running, open the NaturallySpeaking menu and select Open User. Dictating SuccessfullyIt is very important to speak in an even tone of voice and pronounce words clearly; think of a news caster reading the news. Don't talk to others around you or make extraneous noises (coughs, laughs, etc) while dictating; turn off the NaturallySpeaking microphone first. It is also important to correct mistakes using the appropriate NaturallySpeaking commands:
NaturallySpeaking learns from its mistakes. PunctuationYou do need to dictate punctuation, for example, say "hello comma this is a demonstration period". NaturallySpeaking has a new feature called Natural Punctuation that can automatically insert commas and periods. (You still need to dictate other punctuation.) Say "Auto Punctuation On" to activate this feature and "Auto Punctuation Off" to deactivate it. Preventing Voice StrainWhile NaturallySpeaking can help prevent repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, extended use can actually cause strain to a users voice and vocal cords. To limit voice strain, be sure to do the following:
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