Palantypist

A Palantypist is a specially trained and qualified individual dedicated to improving communication for the deaf and hard of hearing. They use a short hand code and Palantype machine to note every word a speaker says.  This code is processed and displayed on a screen in the original words so the hearing impaired do not miss anything.

A Palantypist has to learn codes for each word, which often involves pressing certain buttons at the same time on the Palantype machine to produce a word. The Palantypist has to learn all the shorthand phrases so that they can produce the words simultaneously with the speaker. A trained Palantypist can produce about 120 wpm (words per minute).

These palantypists are vital for the deaf and hard of hearing, as they make it much easier for them to understand everything that is said and communicated in situations such as meetings or court room hearings. Well trained and talented palantypists are fundamental in the support offered to the hearing impaired and is a great advance in technology.