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Since Academic Consulting began to offer transcription services in 2007, we have processed several thousand interviews and focus groups. We’ve learned a lot along the way, and wanted to share this with those of you who aren’t fortunate enough to have research funding to pay transcription services. Below is some information and links to resources that you may find helpful if you are completing your own transcripts.

Transcription Equipment

Transcription units/kits are available to assist you to transcribe your recording(s). These utilise a foot pedal to allow you to play back your recording, and control the speed, volume, rewind/foward, and automatic backstep. An automatic backstep means that whenever you take your foot off the pedal to stop it playing, the recording rewinds slightly so that you can hear the last thing that was said when you start listening again - this is invaluable for transcription.

Depending on the digital dictaphone you have purchased, you may have been provided with a "transcription kit" that contains software for recording playback as well as a foot pedal. If you did not purchase one, it may be worth investigating whether there is one available for your particular model. Alternatively, we recommend the use of Express Scribe which is free audio player software to assist the transcription of audio recordings. Express Scribe can be operated by using keyboard shortcuts, but if you're a touch typist, you may wish to purchase a foot pedal to operate the software. These can be purchased from the Express Scribe website.

If you're using some form of cassette tape (standard, micro, or mini) then there are foot pedal operated transcription units available that can be used to play back your recordings. Tape-based dictaphones are somewhat out-of-date now, so if it's not too late we'd recommend recording via a digital dictaphone. If you've already recorded your interviews using tapes however, then you could try obtaining a transcription unit from your institution.

Useful Transcription Resources

Express Scribe User Manual

Word 2003 Tips for Transcribers

Word 2007 Tips for Transcribers

What Level of Verbatim do I Require in my Transcripts?

What Conventions Should I Use in my Transcripts?

Other related resources include:

Facilitating Interviews and Focus Groups

Recording Interviews and Focus Groups

Recording Telephone Interviews

 

 

 

 

Since we began to offer transcription services in 2007, Academic Consulting has processed well over 10,000 hours of recorded interviews and focus groups. We’ve learned a lot along the way, and wanted to share this with those of you who aren’t fortunate enough to have research funding to pay transcription services. Below is some information and links to resources that you may find helpful if you are completing your own transcripts.

 

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