I am trying to get a bit of information from consumers who use CART and captioning services. I currently work at UC Davis and am a CART provider myself. I am looking for any comments from those who use the services about any issues, concerns or questions you may have about the services or the providers of the services.

I am hoping to speak at a PEPnet conference and I am hoping to talk about CART and captioning and what to expect from the service, how to monitor the providers. In general, I know it is such a new field that many people still don't understand how it all works. I am hoping to answer questions and discuss any concerns that may arise about the services. I would also like to touch a bit on ethics for CART consumers and providers.

I just read your post and want to get some info in the area of CART and captioning. I am a graduate of Gallaudet University and worked in the captioning office. How difficult is it to break into the field of captioning? I have extensive experience using the Cheetah systems for post-production captioning, but don't have any live experience. Any advice you can give me would be appreciated!!

One more thing...I am also a UC Davis grad...GO AGS!

I have used CART numerous times over the past two years- for meetings, lectures, as a member of a jury and even for a deposition. I have been fortunate to have the same CART provider for 90% of the time. She is extremely professional and accurate. An added benefit of working with my usual provider is that she also signs a bit. This has been very helpful to me. We have also worked out little systems during difficult lectures. During breaks Cathy usually "tunes up" her dictionary if different vocabulary is being used. The computer picks up certain marks and goes back to certain parts of the text. If I am particulary confused by a part of a lecture or feel that a particular quote is a highlight, I lightly tap the computer screen. Cathy puts a mark at that line. During break we go back and I can either write down the quote in my notes or get enough info to ask an intelligent question to the teacher.

Just some thoughts. Fell free to contact me via Email if you wish.