Speech technology typically refers to technology that enables machines to receive and accept human oral language as input and respond with human or human-like oral language as output. Speech technology has recently become increasingly mature and available to the general public. At the same time, there has been an increase in the interest in using speech technology to support learning for students with disabilities. This article surveys the current capacities of speech technology, reviews its existing and potential uses in education in general and special education in particular, and recommends research and development actions and strategies for realizing the potential of speech technology for learners with disabilities.
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