ELL French & Spanish: Speech Recognition Stops in Virtual Challenge (270784)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Encarta Language Learning French
  • Microsoft Encarta Language Learning French Deluxe
  • Microsoft Encarta Language Learning Spanish
  • Microsoft Encarta Language Learning Spanish Deluxe
This article was previously published under Q270784

SYMPTOMS

When you take the Virtual Challenge in one of the Encarta Language Learning programs listed at the beginning of this article, the recording part of the challenge may finish before you finish speaking.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur for any of the following reasons:
  • There is a moment of silence at the beginning or in the middle of the recording.
  • You pronounce words too slowly.
  • You stutter when you pronounce some words.
  • You do not pronounce words clearly or you mumble.
  • You speak too softly.
  • You are not speaking into the microphone.
  • The volume of the microphone is too low or muted.
  • The microphone or sound card is not working correctly.
NOTE: Voice recognition in the Virtual Challenge is designed to stop recording when you finish speaking.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this issue, use the following methods in the order in which they are presented.

Pronounce Your Words Correctly

The primary cause of this issue is pronunciation. Slight pauses or delays in the pronunciation of words can cause this issue to occur.

When you learn to speak a language, pronunciation can be one of the hardest parts of speaking fluently. You may need to practice your pronunciation before you attempt the Virtual Challenges.

The following suggestions can help with pronunciation:
  • Meet with a friend or a teacher and have them provide you with feedback on your pronunciation.
  • Record yourself speaking the language, and then listen to your own pronunciation.
  • Use the Speaking exercises that are included with the Encarta Language Learning program.

Run the Microphone Wizard

To run Microphone Wizard:
  1. Start the Encarta Language Learning program.
  2. On the Options menu, click Microphone Wizard.

    NOTE: The Options menu may not be displayed if the Encarta Language Learning program is run in a small window.

  3. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the Microphone Wizard.

Increase the Microphone Volume Setting

To increase the microphone volume:
  1. Start the Encarta Language Learning program.
  2. On the Options menu, click Volume Control.
  3. Click to clear the Mute check box, and move the Volume slider up to increase the volume.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:11/24/2003
Keywords:kbenv kbprb kbsound KB270784
©2003 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.