Morse code learning for assistive technology access: engagement, learning time, and cue associations in a large...

Area of Science:

• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Learning Sciences

Background:

• Morse code remains a valuable communication method, especially for assistive technology.
• Understanding learning dynamics is crucial for optimizing user training and engagement.
• Self-directed learning platforms offer insights into skill acquisition patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze Morse code learning speed and user engagement in a public, self-directed training environment.
• To investigate the impact of different cueing methods (visual, auditory) on Morse code alphabet recognition.
• To inform the design of effective assistive technology applications utilizing Morse code.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 699,562 telemetry records from 34,641 users over five years.
• Estimation of learning time from 35,370 learning sessions.
• Binomial regression modeling of final accuracy for 9,476 engaged users.

Main Results:

• A subset of engaged users achieved full Morse alphabet recognition in a median of 55.6 minutes.
• Visual cueing significantly improved accuracy (90.3% vs 82.2%) and learning progress (51.6% vs 39.3%).
• Visual cues were most effective initially, while sound cues became more beneficial as learning progressed.

Conclusions:

• The Morse alphabet is learnable within approximately one hour for a subset of dedicated users.
• Adaptive cueing strategies, with visual cues for initial acquisition and sound cues for later stages, are beneficial.
• Findings support Morse code's utility as an accessible communication method and emphasize configurable cueing.