Transcribing dictation, especially within a busy office can be challenging for people with hearing impairment due to the sometimes poor recording sound quality, background noise, and distractions within the office. It is crucial however to ensure that accuracy of dictation transcription is of a high standard or it eliminates the benefits.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
There are a number of practical supports and aids that can assist people with hearing impairment transcribe dictation accurately.
Environment
It is important, where possible, to ensure that the person transcribing dictation is in a quiet area with little background noise. Private offices are ideal.
If a quiet place is not available and the work needs to be completed in a busy office or open plan area, other supports can assist the person to hear the recorded or live dictation clearly:
Equipment
Consider the transfer from cassette tape model dictaphone systems to digital models for improved sound clarity.
A range of headsets are also available with varying shaped earpieces that may suit various models of hearing aid. Specialised headsets are also available that look like a small version of earmuffs and act to electronically cancel out background noise, enhance sound and reduce distortion.
Some other options that can assist with dictation include:
(Transcriptiongear.com 2007; Listening Solutions 2007).
Other solutions
For more information on specific types of telecommunications equipment that can make using telephones and telephone communication systems more accessible in the workplace. See link below for more information:
References
Listening Solutions 2007, Hearing Assistance, Listening Solutions, Perth, viewed 10 August 2007, < http://www.listeningsolutions.com.au/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=7&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=26>.
TranscriptionGear.com 2007, Transcription headsets, TranscriptionGear.com, Ohio, viewed 10 August 2007, <http://www.transcriptiongear.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=CONTACT>.