Abstract: A method is disclosed for aurally indicating progress. In one embodiment, a node count module determines a node threshold. A discovery module searches for a plurality of nodes over a communications channel wherein each node is autonomously connected to the communications channel. In addition, the discovery module receives a reply from a node. The node count module may direct an indicator module to modify an aural indicator in response to the node count exceeding the node threshold. The indicator module further emits the aural indicator.

Abstract: Conversation management is provided in a computer speech recognition system by generating a number of graphical and audio interfaces. The system allocates video and speech for different purposes to cue a user when to speak. The system also makes use of video and speech to cue a user regarding how to speak, thereby alleviating the vocabulary problems common to many speech recognition interfaces. These techniques permit a user to be informed when and how to speak during a fairly complex situation such as an interview.

Abstract: A first graphical user interface for a video environment display is generated. A second graphical user interface for a synthesized environment display is generated. An audio output interface for audibly transmitting audio information associated with the first and second graphical user interfaces is generated. An audio input interface for receiving audible information as an input for the speech recognition interface is generated. The context is separated from the content by providing video and synthesized environments having different but complementary functions.

Abstract: A visual feedback aid, for a computer system performing speech recognition functions, provides indications on a display monitor of the system representing the current state of operation of a system microphone, the current mode of operation of the system in respect to speech, and a string of text representing the system's recognition (correct or incorrect) of commands instantly spoken into the microphone. The indications preferably are located in a reserved area of a display window associated with a currently active application involving speech recognition. The reserved area preferably would be a prominent one, such as the application title bar.