WordQ/SpeakQ

Another program that I would like to look at besides Dragon Naturally Speaking is WordQ/SpeakQ made by Quillsoft which I have played with a little bit using a 30 day trial version. The benefit of WordQ/SpeakQ is that is combines word prediction and a talking word processor with voice recogntion. This makes it easier for younger students to train their voice without a more advanced reading level. Basically, the computer reads the words to the student in a 2-5 word phrase and the student repeats it. Then, when actually using the program, you can choose to have the text go into a window to be previewed before you send it into your document. That way the student can correct errors beforehand. This feature can also be turned off if desired. I did try this program with a couple of 4th grade students with Asperger's last month. They each were frustrated after only 5-10 minutes of training because the program kept asking them to repeat words that it didn't understand...both students have some speech errors that make some words difficult to decipher. The more frustrated these students became, the louder and squeakier their voices were...not to mention that the computer did not respond to the insults hurled at it ("you stupid computer!!") I think that I need to train these students how to record into a microphone in a clear voice before proceeding....maybe after a little more speech therapy, plus some maturity... Nevertheless, I am interested in this program due to the fact that it has many features that Dragon does not.