Abstract
This study investigated the effects of four different voice synthesizers on attitudes of nondisabled individuals toward an augmented communicator. Subjects (N = 284) viewed one of four videotapes depicting an adult VOCA (voice output communication aid) user having a conversation with a normal-speaking individual. The voice synthesizers used in the respective videotapes were ArticR65B male voice, Smoothtalker 3.0 male voice, RealVoice female, and DECtalk "Beautiful Betty." The Attitudes Toward Nonspeaking Persons Scale (ATNP) was used as the primary dependent variable. Results showed that attitudes toward the augmented communicator are more favorable in terms of evaluation and potential interaction when the synthetic voice is "easier to listen to." Gender-appropriate voice did not produce more favorable attitudes than gender-inappropriate voice. Implications of these findings for technological development of augmentative devices are discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
