Word prediction software in people with cervical spinal cord injury: A literature review

Introduction/Background Individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (ICSCI) have difficulty accessing computers through conventional methods. The purpose of this paper was to provide a critical narrative review on types of computer access devices and word prediction software for ICSCI. Material and method A search was conducted in several electronic databases. Results There is limited data about Test Input Speed (TIS) in ICSCI. One study showed that TIS in ICSCI was significantly lower [mean = 11 words per minute (wpm)] ( P  = 0.001) than TIS of abled-bodied individuals (19 wpm). In a sample of ICSCI, there was a significant difference between voice recognition system (mean = 18 wpm), a standard keyboard (mean = 8 wpm) and an onscreen keyboard (mean = 3 wpm) ( P Conclusion Each professional could provide clear and accurate information on the benefits of WPS for people with cervical SCI. WPS must be set regarding the needs of people with cervical SCI. If not, the use of these software's may go against the expected benefits.