Dysarthric Speech Database for Development of QoLT Software Technology

Abstract

This paper describes the creation of a dysarthric speech database which has been done as part of a national program to help the disabled lead a better life ― a challenging endeavour that is targeting development of speech technologies for people with articulation disabilities. The additional aims of this database are to study the phonetic characteristics of the different types of the disabled persons, develop the automatic method to assess degrees of disability, and investigate the phonetic features of dysarthric speech. For these purposes, a large database of about 600 mildly or moderately severe dysarthric persons is planned for a total of 4 years (2010.06. 01 ~ 2014.05.31). At present a dysarthric speech database of 120 speakers has been collected and we are continuing to record new speakers with cerebral paralysis of mild and moderate severity. This paper also introduces the prompting items, the assessment of the speech disability severity of the speakers, and other considerations for the creation of a dysarthric speech.