Christoph Draxler, Henk van den Heuvel, Arjan van Hessen, Silvia Calamai, Louise Corti, Stefania Scagliola

Abstract

In this paper we present a first version of a transcription portal for audio files based on automatic speech recognition (ASR) in various languages. The portal is implemented in the CLARIN resources research network and intended for use by non-technical scholars. We explain the background and interdisciplinary nature of interview data, the perks and quirks of using ASR for transcribing the audio in a research context, the dos and don’ts for optimal use of the portal, and future developments foreseen. The portal is promoted in a range of workshops, but there are a number of challenges that have to be met. These challenges concern privacy issues, ASR quality, and cost, amongst others.

Keywords: automatic speech recognition, interviews, digital humanities, social sciences, research infrastructure

full paper