Researcher(s)
- Rowan Ackerman, Computer Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Matthew Mauriello, Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University of Delaware
Abstract
The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is commonly used in many fields where the accurate transcription of sounds, words, and phrases in unfamiliar languages is necessary, particularly in the field of Linguistics. Current IPA input methods suffer from steep learning curves, unintuitive layouts, and technical instability. To remedy this, we have developed an input method that uses the layout of the IPA chart (a teaching tool and reference for most things IPA), requires little setup, and is efficient to use. This method allows one to use a secondary device ⹁such as a phone or tablet, as a sort of keyboard for a primary device (i.e., their computer). Users without access to multiple devices can use the website to type and copy-and-paste transcriptions. We are planning research to demonstrate the software’s functionality and ease of use. We will compare user interaction with this novel input method and one in common use, as well as gather input from students who choose to use it for coursework. We hypothesize that the novel input method will be significantly easier and less frustrating to use than the existing method and that it will result in faster and more accurate transcriptions. The availability of a more intuitive input method would allow for easier transcription of IPA characters, greatly benefiting all fields that use it.