Speech-to-text interpretation (STTI) is a notetaking programme which provides meaning for meaning transcription to aural information. Speech-to-text interpreters focus on conveying the meaning of what is being said, achieved through the use of shorthand, eliminating filler words, and condensing connected thoughts.
10 students completed 12 hours of the training programme online by Nix Sang, Founder and Team Lead and Shila Yong, Accessibility Specialist at Equal Dreams on 30 December 2021. These newly trained Notetakers are now equipped to support their deaf/hard of hearing student peers. The Student Accessibility Unit (SAU) at the Office of Student Affairs hopes to improve understanding of deaf culture at NUS and with a focus on the students’ educational journey, and to provide better options for them.
Three students reveal their learning experiences:
“Every deaf individual is unique. Accessibility is not always found in our surroundings. The role as STTI is to provide equal access to the Deaf students, to help put them on the same level as our hearing peers. I learnt tips and tricks to help with my shorthand development. For example, meaning-for-meaning and speed-building techniques.”
– Ong Shien Chern, Year 3, FASS
“I gained deeper insights of what it’s like to be in the shoes of a Deaf person from the sharing by the Deaf guest speakers. It’s important to de-stigmatise stereotypes about the Deaf and I want to help them reach their full potential.”
– Adam Ho Keng Yuen, Year 2, School of Computing
“I’m more comfortable asking Deaf persons their preferences in accessing any type of content. Now that I better understand their needs, I can accommodate their requests which will help them with their studies. For example, identify the range of Deaf access services options available, when and how these options are utilised.”
– Tan Yan Zhi Bevlyn, Year 3, FASS
Students can receive this note taking service and other types of support by contacting SAU.
If you are interested in accessibility work, training faculty in higher education or are aspiring to be a disability service professional - this training is perfect for you! Sign up for the next cycle from 8 May 2022 onwards.
Register here with your NUS email.
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