TypeWell is a speech to text transcription system which provides communication access and notes after class to students who need alternative or additional support. This innovative service differs from traditional "captioning" services as it is meaning for meaning. Not word for word. Prior to starting a class in which TypeWell is being used, the student should make an appointment with a TypeWell transcriber to familiarize themselves with the service.
Here is a brief overview of what a student should expect from TypeWell in a classroom environment. First, the TypeWell transcriber will show up to the class 15 minutes ahead of time to set up the two laptops that will be used. The laptops are linked via a wireless card. Therefore the student does not have to sit right next to the transcriber. The transcriber will type on their laptop what is being said in class as well as the "lingo" used to express it. They use special software that allows them to keep up with the pace of the class by using abbreviations that are invisible to the student. Since this service is meaning for meaning they might omit false starts like...well, um, ok then, etc. They might also omit off the point comments and false repetitions. The student will immediately see what is being typed on their laptop. This will appear on the top portion of their screen. On the bottom portion they can either type their own notes or type comments or questions to the transcriber that they would like voiced. This will start with the opening comments such as Good Morning and end with the final closing of the class. [ End of Class ] The student will then return the laptop to the transcriber. The transcriber will take care of packing everything up. After the class is finished the transcriber will save the lecture and edit the content of the notes for spelling mistakes or any other comments that need to be deleted. If the student made his or her own notes on the laptop, that will be added to the end of the transcription. The transcriber will then email the notes to the student within 24 hours.
Please feel free to call or click here to contact the DRC with any questions or to set up a demonstration of TypeWell. For additional information visit the TypeWell Homepage at www.typewell.com
