Have you ever been told that listening to an audiobook isn’t “real” reading, or that using speech-to-text technology isn’t “real” writing? This idea stems from a deeper issue of clinging to traditional norms and overlooking the diverse needs of others. In today’s rapidly evolving world, it’s crucial to challenge these outdated notions and recognize the value that modern methods bring to reading and writing. By embracing new technologies and approaches, we can open doors for many who were previously excluded from these activities.
📚 Embracing Audiobooks and Inclusivity
When someone says, “you’re not technically reading, you’re listening to an audiobook,” they’re correct, but they’re also missing the point. This perspective disregards the immense value audiobooks bring, especially for those who are blind. Imagine the knowledge blind individuals can now access without waiting for braille versions. In a time when we can ask an app for a history timeline, this accessibility is life-changing. For people with fully functioning senses, it’s easy to overlook the daily struggles others face. But consider a blind student studying archaeology or architecture—access to audiobooks and digital resources opens new doors for their education and research.
✍️ Writing in the Digital Age
I must admit, I used to feel guilty for not always physically writing. While I love analog note-taking for important meetings, I’ve found that speaking into my computer and using speech-to-text technology lets me accomplish much more. This method relieves me of the burden of manual writing, allowing me to focus on my ideas. As someone who has ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, speech-to-text technology is a game-changer. It helps me organize my thoughts more clearly, reduces the anxiety associated with traditional writing methods, and ensures my ideas flow seamlessly. For others with similar disabilities, speech-to-text offers a way to express themselves without the barriers of manual writing, making it easier to focus on content rather than the mechanics and focus needed of writing.
🌍 Adapting to Modern Realities
Today, mental health and crime rates have increased, especially post-pandemic. Our current era requires us to adjust our thinking. When someone uses speech-to-text to write a book, it might just be the modern way. Imagine how much more powerful the works of James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, and Bell Hooks could have been with today’s technology and access to information. We should see those using these tools as the next generation of prolific writers, leading the way with new methods.
🔄 Embracing Differences
Often, people think something done differently is wrong. But different isn’t always bad—it’s just different. If there’s anything to take away from this, it’s that embracing new ways of doing things can lead to extraordinary results. Next time you hear someone wrote a book using speech-to-text, recognize it as a valid, innovative approach to creativity.
Different methods can lead to extraordinary results. What traditional belief can you challenge today?