Using the dictation feature on iOS
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The dictation feature can help make life easier. It allows you to speak the words that you would like to appear in certain fields; it then transcribes your words into text without you having to type anything. This can be especially handy for those of us who have trouble with the onscreen keyboard on smaller devices or keyboards that are not standard size. One thing to note is that the dictation feature is only available when cellular or wi-fi is available. Let’s take a quick look at a few keyboard-related scenarios, then we’ll get into how to use the dictation feature.
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I get really frustrated when I have to type on the keyboard because I don’t know where all the keys are and I’m so slow.
I feel like my fingers are too fat to type because I always seem to hit the wrong key(s). I even hit two keys at the same time, which really messes me up.
I tried to write a note on my device while a friend was giving me directions and I just couldn’t type fast enough. It frustrated both me and my friend.
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The dictation key
When your smart device has cellular or wi-fi access, the dictation key (i.e., microphone) will be visible to the left of the space bar on iOS devices as shown below.
Using the dictation feature
Based on several factors, the dictation feature may only be able to process a certain amount of information at one time; however, what you say will appear on the screen and the feature will notify you with a “ding” when it reaches its maximum capacity. You can always tap the dictation key again to continue where you left off.
Okay, okay, so how do I use the dictation feature?
Use the Dictation Feature
- Open the desired app and tap the desired field.
- Tap the dictation key.
- Say the words you would like to insert in the selected field. Watch as your words appear on the screen.
- Tap Done when finished or it will automatically stop when its capacity is maxed out.
I think I get it, but how does it really work?
The following video demonstrates the dictation feature in action in the Notes app on an iPhone 10 device.
Making Cognitive Connections
The dictation feature provides a wealth of ways in which we can apply the Making Cognitive Connections concept. For instance:
- Attention to detail — When you review the text you dictated to make sure it was entered correctly, you are paying attention to detail.
- Problem solving — When some text that you dictated didn’t come out quite the way you intended, you need to problem-solve the most efficient way to fix it.
One of the most important aspects of the Making Cognitive Connections approach is how the skills you are applying in one app generalize to other apps, as well as to things you do at home, school, and work. So take a moment to think how the dictation feature could be used in other apps, as well as how the cognitive skills of attention to detail and problem solving relate to your life.
In conclusion…
The dictation feature of your smart device can make a big difference in how you use your device. You don’t have to worry about typing too slow or trying to find the right key. The feature works in most apps whether you want to fill in a single field or take longer notes within an app such as Notes or Google Docs. The feature doesn’t care whether it’s you talking to it or someone else does the talking.
It’s time to start taking advantage of a great time-saving feature on your iOS device.
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