Long-Term Speed and Accuracy of Morse Code Vs. Head-Pointer Interface for Text Generation
By Anson, Denis K., MS, OTR/L; Glodek, Melinda, OTS; Peiffer, Richard M., OTS; Rubino, Cory G., OTS; RESNA 27th International Annual Conference 2004: Technology & Disability: Research, Design, Practice, & Policy,Publication Date: 2004
Study conducted to determine the rate of text generation output of Morse code versus a head-pointer interface for people with disabilities such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy once an optimal level of proficiency is achieved with both interfaces. Eight people who were not disabled participated in the study. The participants typed text into Microsoft Word 2000, which was used to evaluate typing speed and accuracy. Morse code input was achieved through the use of the Darci Card Morse code interface device, which was connected to a sip and puff switch. Participants performed head-pointing input by using the HeadMaster Plus in conjunction with the ScreenDoor 2000 on-screen keyboard program. Four participants who had no previous experience with either input method were found to be able to type faster with the combination of head-pointing and on-screen keyboard than with Morse code. This result indicates that when choosing an input method for a client, head pointing will usually allow for faster text input in short term periods, as less training is required. Given time, however, Morse code may provide faster text generation than head-pointing devices.
Assistive Products Discussed: DARCI USB
HEADMASTER PLUS (MODEL HM-3P)
SCREENDOORS 2000
HEADMASTER PLUS (MODEL HM-2P)
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
