STSN - TypeWell

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TypeWell ^®

All the meaning in fewer words.

TypeWell is a speech-to-text communication access system, that expresses all the meaning spoken, but in fewer words. A trained TypeWell transcriber listens to speakers and types, on a laptop computer, a richly-detailed script of what was said.

To keep up with the fast flow of words and ideas, the TypeWell transcriber types abbreviations of words. The TypeWell specially-designed speed-typing software program expands the abbreviations into full words. The words are displayed on another laptop, or other viewing device, for a reader to see in 'real time'.

TypeWell abbreviations are based on spelling, so they are a natural extension of the thinking a person usually does when typing. The abbreviation is thus easy to learn quickly, and to recall automatically in the stress of a fast-paced lecture. TypeWell transcribers also learn the same kind of strategies that sign language interpreters learn, in order to express all the meaning a speaker says, but in fewer words.

TypeWell is used to provide communication access in high schools, colleges, social service agencies, churches, and clubs. The TypeWell transcriber can also provide a permanent copy of the text file, for review or study after the class or meeting.

TypeWell can be used via the internet to provide remote services. It is also used for individuals with visual problems, in conjunction with font enlarger (e.g., ZoomText), screen reader (e.g., JAWS), or a braille writer.

The meaning-for-meaning text script produced by a TypeWell transcriber includes all the meaning spoken, but in fewer words. This is similar to the process used by a sign language interpreter, and thus the term text interpreting has been coined to describe it.

Here is a sample of a TypeWell meaning-for-meaning script of a class lecture segment. Parallel ideas are shown in same font style.

Verbatim	TypeWell Transcript
Okay, now look at page 25 and you will get an idea of what was happening in the West with respect to the mining empire and the cattle empire that began to develop during that time.	Look at page 25. You’ll see what was happening then in the West with respect to the developing mining and cattle empires.
36 words	22 words

Read details about TypeWell, including information about training as a TypeWell transcriber, setting up TypeWell services at a new site, and consumers use of TypeWell, at the Typewell website, www.typewell.com NOTE: clicking this link will take you away from the STSN.org website. Book mark this page before leaving it, to facilitate your quick return later.

Information provided on the STSN.org website is for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement of any product or service.

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