Considerations for Chinese text input methods in the design of speech generating devices: a tutorial

Millions of Chinese-speaking people who have the most severe speech disorders could potentially benefit from using Speech Generating Devices (SGDs) to help them participate in society. Entering Chinese text into computer systems is complex, and the process itself requires a translation system from the small selection set of keys to Chinese characters, thus adding to the complexities of adaptive access to computers often required by people who rely on them for spoken and written communication. This paper examines two types of input method: those relying on phonetic principles, and those relying on logographic principles. It evaluates the potential pros and cons of each input method to specific populations with complex communication needs.