C-Print™: A Communication Access Alternative
Issues in Providing Speech-to-Print Transcription Services
Providing for adequate communication for deaf and hard of hearing students in the
mainstream classroom is a complex and challenging task.
- Both steno-based and standard keyboard approaches are being used in mainstream secondary
and postsecondary settings.
Speech-to-Print Transcription Systems
C-Print™
Steno-based systems
Automatic speech recognition
Computer Assisted Notetaking
What is C-Print™?
Keyboard-based system
Communication access tool
Supports both real time and notetaking
Used stand alone or as adjunct to another accommodation
How C-Print™ Works
Captionist
Abbreviation system based on phonetics
(How the word sounds, not how it is spelled.)
- Text condensing strategies (meaning-for- meaning translation)
Technology
Laptop computer
- Specialized abbreviation software with extensive dictionary of abbreviations
- Communication software (connecting laptops)
Examples of C-Print™ Phonetic Rules
Type the letter "k" for the sound /k/, no matter how it is
spelled.
Ex., coffee = kfe
culture = klcr
Type the letter "q" for the sound "nk".
Ex., think = thq
drink = drq
blanket = blqt
Examples of C-Print™ Abbreviations
Typed Abbreviation Expanded Words Seen on Screen
slvg t pblm solving the problem
abrevx sstm abbreviation system
Display Options
Option 1
2 laptops
Captionist and Student
Option 2
Captionist
Student
Benefits for Students
Text display remains on screen for approximately one minute.
Exposure to actual vocabulary.
Hard copy notes after class are manageable and can be used as a study tool.
Individual student needs are likely to influence the extent of
benefit.
Students Who Benefit Most
Language preference is English
Reading level of 4th grade or above
May know little or no sign language
Others
Low vision
Learning disabilities
Physically challenged
English as a second language
Appropriate Environments
Classroom lectures
Group discussions
Business/community meetings
Captionist Requirements
Typing speed of 60+ wpm
Phonetic apptitude
Excellent listening skills
Excellent English skills
Confidence working in educational settings
Ability to work in high stress situations
Captionist Training
Training materials (manual, audio tapes, etc.)
Most common training format - two phases
Independent study (40-50 hours)
One-week workshop
PEPNet Online Orientation to Deafness
Other training formats may be available
Certification (in process)
Cost Considerations
Hardware – laptop(s), display options (2nd laptop or monitor),
linking cable or wireless network cards
Software – abbreviation and communications software
Captionist salaries – rates range between $12-$25/hr. depending on location
and proficiency
Other – laptop carrying case, portable stand, disks, etc.
Other Considerations
Logistics
How notes will be distributed?
What is the classroom setup?
Ergonomics
How long will a captionist be required to type?
How dense is the topic?
Roles
What are the roles/responsibilities of the captionist, students, etc.?
Recruiting
Who is an appropriate candidate?
Where do Institutions advertise for captionists?
Contact Information:
Phone: 716-475-2809 (voice/TTY)
Fax: 716-475-7660
Emailcprint@rit.edu
Webhttp://netac.rit.edu/c-print.html