Jenna+Baumgartle

Dragon NaturallySpeaking Demo

Dragon Naturally Speaking software is a program which allows the user to speak through a microphone and have the words typed for him or her on the computer screen. The posted YouTube link is a demonstration of how the software works. Dragon Naturally Speaking is a very useful tool, both inside and out of the classroom. The ability to “type” documents without physically typing is an incredible tool for students who have a disability that inhibits motor skills or vision. It is also useful for students who are better with verbal skills than writing skills. They are still able to express their thoughts without worrying about how they will communicate them through their fingertips. For students who have attention difficulties, being able to speak (versus strictly type) may keep them more engaged and allow for more fluidity in their writing. Though the development of writing skills is important, being able to accurately and comfortably express oneself is crucial in academic settings. If that means the student does this better through speaking, then it should be so.