Does Dragon NaturallySpeaking Speech Recognition Software Make People Lazy?

Speech recognition software programs converts spoken language to type. One of the most popular and affordable brands of voice-activated software is Dragon NaturallySpeaking by Nuance. Dragon NS Home Edition is available for around $50. Does speech recognition software make people lazy? That's the question some educators and parents are asking themselves.

Obviously, voice-activated software that transcribes spoken word into written type is a godsend for physically challenged and disabled users. Quadriplegics and persons without the use of arms can access computer functions. They can hold down jobs. Speech recognition software means that disabled persons can enjoy meaningful employment.

As a special needs and adult basic education instructor, I'm delighted about the possibilities available with Dragon NaturallySpeaking software. Students who have been unable to access a keyboard, navigate a mouse or physically interact with digital devices now have a utility to do so. As on of the original ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) committee members in our school district, I hale Dragon NaturallySpeaking as a panacea for physically challenged people.

However, I see drawbacks for Dragon NS users. Speech recognition software has the potential to be used as a crutch for users who really don't need it. When Dragon NS users rely on voice activated commands rather than learning skills that they are capable of preforming, I have reservations about the software.

When students use dyslexia, Attention-Deficit Disorder, learning disabilities, etc. as an excuse to avoid learning to read and write, I have a problem with that. Users develop dependency on speech recognition software instead of improving their reading, writing and typing skills.

I have several acquaintances who proclaim to be disabled. They claim that they need Dragon NaturallySpeaking tools because writing and typing are difficult for them. I have observed library computer lab patrons who complain that the library does not offer speech recognition software nor allow them to download the software.

These people have shown themselves perfectly capable of using a regular keyboard and mouse. They do not need Dragon NaturallySpeaking or any other voice activated software. They like it because it's easier than typing. For them to continue to use voice-activated software means they aren't using the skills they have. It's also a big waste of money.

But all this is easy for me to say because I'm not learning disabled. I am proficient at typing, writing and speaking, right? Wrong. I have moderate dyslexia, dysgraphia, mild aphasia and several other perceptual challenges. I am clumsy and uncoordinated. My typing is slow and full of mistakes. I transpose words, phrases and spellings frequently.

My disabilities are one of the reasons I chose special education as a career. I understand special needs and I empathize. However, I have learned to compensate. I don't let my "handicaps" prevent me from using the skills that I have. I know that if I practice I can find work-arounds for my dyslexia. If I take the easy approach, what skills I do have will atrophy.

Should students use Dragon NaturallySpeaking speech recognition software? Absolutely, if they need it. I believe it is the job of educators to help students maximize the skills they have, not rely on unnecessary artificial devices. For more educational resources, visit my linked blogs.