Keyboard interface of a speech synthesiser for the physically handicapped
R E Schlegel1, R R Spencer, C W Whitbeck
1Assistant Professor, School of Industrial Engineering, The University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, USA.
Applied Ergonomics
|March 1, 1988
Summary
This study improved speech synthesizer use for children with cerebral palsy. A new keyboard overlay significantly reduced word selection time, enhancing communication device efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Assistive technology
- Human-computer interaction
- Rehabilitation engineering
Background:
- Children with cerebral palsy often face challenges using communication devices.
- Speech synthesizers require efficient input methods for effective use.
- Existing keyboard displays can be slow due to complex word selection processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate different keyboard display coding schemes for a speech synthesizer.
- To improve the speed and efficiency of operating a speech synthesizer for children with cerebral palsy.
- To identify optimal coding strategies for enhanced user performance.
Main Methods:
- Five children with cerebral palsy participated in the study.
- Subjects operated a speech synthesizer with four new keyboard overlays.
- Overlays featured different combinations of color coding and lettering case.
- Task completion time for 10-word sequences was measured.
Main Results:
- One specific overlay significantly improved performance.
- This overlay utilized a color and position redundant coding scheme with upper-case lettering.
- A time saving of over 20 seconds per word was achieved compared to the original display.
- The optimized coding scheme reduced cognitive load and search time.
Conclusions:
- Keyboard display coding schemes can substantially impact speech synthesizer usability.
- Redundant coding (color and position) with clear lettering enhances efficiency for users with cerebral palsy.
- This research provides a basis for designing more effective augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interfaces.
