Communication Video

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Transcript

We communicate in many different ways: body language, gesture, eye contact, signing and speaking. There are a wide range of communication devices with built-in voices which people use to communicate with.

Cronán uses a communication device called a Lightwriter to enhance his communication. Basically, it looks like a mini keyboard and Cronán uses it by typing what he wants to say. Then the Lightwriter’s speech synthesiser speaks the message. Cronán can also choose to store messages he uses on a regular basis, which he can then access quickly.

The Lightwriter has two clear display screens, one facing outwards and the other facing Cronán so that he can confirm what he has typed, or correct misspellings. If necessary the listener can look at the screen to confirm what Cronán has said. However this is only a backup and is not as important as listening to Cronán himself.

Communication devices which use speech synthesisers have a range of different voices. It is important that users can choose whichever voice they like. Our personal identity is very closely linked to our voices so it is important that users choose carefully the voice they want to use.

Not all communication devices use synthesised speech. Some use recorded human speech and you can find out more about these as you navigate your way through the Communication section of this CD.

We communicate in many different ways: body language, gesture, eye contact, signing and speaking. There are a wide range of communication devices with built-in voices which people use to communicate with.

Communication devices which use speech synthesisers have a range of different voices. It is important that users can choose whichever voice they like. Our personal identity is very closely linked to our voices so it is important that users choose carefully the voice they want to use.