What is CART?
Accessibility is essential for effective communication in work, educational and healthcare settings.. Without interpreters or assistive technology, people who are Deaf and hard-of-hearing face challenges with understanding and participating in verbal conversations. CART (Communication Access Real-Time Translation) is an accessible solution for communication barriers.
What is CART and what does it stand for?
CART, an acronym for “Communication Access Real-Time Translation” is a process that turns spoken words into written text in real time. With the help of technology and a machine called a stenotype, a CART service captures what is being said and displays it as text on a screen. This allows people who are Deaf and hard-of-hearing to read and understand conversations as they happen.
How Does CART Work?
CART professionals, known as CART reporters or stenographers, attend meetings, conferences, or other events where communication is important. They use a special machine to listen to what is being said and type it out as text using a stenotype. The text is then shown on a screen, making it easy for people with a hearing disability to follow along and be a part of the conversation.
What is a Stenotype?
A stenotype is a machine that CART reporters use to write down spoken words. It looks like a typewriter, but has fewer keys. Instead of typing one letter at a time, a stenographer presses multiple keys together to represent whole words or sounds. This shorthand method helps transcribe speechquickly and accurately. The machine translates the key combinations into written text that appears on a screen. CART reporters need training to use a stenotype effectively.
Where is CART used?
CART can be used in various settings, such as classrooms, meetings, conferences, and online events. It can be set up on-site or used remotely, depending on the needs of the participants. Wherever there is a need for live captions, CART should be available.
Benefits of CART
Better Communication: CART helps bridge the communication gap for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. It allows them to actively participate in conversations, meetings, and classrooms, making communication more inclusive.
Accurate Transcription: CART captioners are trained to transcribe spoken words accurately and quickly. This ensures that the text displayed on the screen is a reliable translation of what is being said.
Real-time Interaction: CART provides text translations in real time. This means that people with hearing disabilities can read the conversation as it happens, allowing them to participate actively and respond in a timely manner.
CART and Accessibility Laws
CART plays an important role in ensuring equal communication access for Deaf and hard of hearing people.. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires communication accessibility for individuals with disabilities. CART is recognized as an assistive technology solution and is often required in educational and professional environments to comply with ADA guidelines.
CART Summary
CART (Communication Access Real-Time Translation) is a valuable technology that improves communication for individuals who are Deaf and hard of hearing. Providing real-time text translations allows the DHH community to actively participate in workplace and academic conversations.. The benefits of CART, such as better communication, accurate transcription, real-time interaction, versatility, and privacy, make it an essential tool for creating accessible and inclusive environments. As we strive for a more inclusive society, CART continues to break down barriers and enable effective communication for all. At Ava, we use AI along with human scribes or captioners to generate highly accurate captions without delay.