Training for verbatim reporting has undergone a considerable change with the advent of computerised shorthand machines and Computer Aided Transcription (CAT)
Qualifications
The basic requirement for a court reporter is the ability to stenotype with speed and accuracy; but of almost equal importance is a sound knowledge of the English language. An efficient court reporter must be capable of transforming often ungrammatical extempore speech into a written record which, while not distorting the original sense or intention, can be easily read and understood.
Thus a good general education with a sound knowledge of the English language, plus a thorough grounding in grammar and punctuation, are necessary. Added to that is the desire to work hard.
Which Machine?
There are several different machines, the Palantype machine, several versions of which are currently made in Britain and there is the stenotype machine manufactured in the USA.
Where To Start
Before deciding which machine to learn it is advisable to arrange for a hands-on demonstration to see which machine best suits you and whether you have the aptitude to gain the necessary finger skills. There are courses in the UK in the stenotype machine.
Sorene Court Reporting & Training Services offer a distance learning stenography course. Contact Mary Sorene on 020 8907 8249 - marysorene@ntlworld.com - www.sorene.co.uk
St Thomas's Community College, Bray (Ireland). - 00 353 1 282 9668.
Self-study Theory & Review with Tutorials - a go-it-alone option for those who are self-motivated
You can purchase a realtime tutorial direct from the USA - Basic Theory book, computerdiskettes & audio cassettes $425 -Convert to Sterling at current rate, (remember to add 4.9% duty, then add 17.5% VAT!) + $80 (approx) shipping. (Please check current exchange rates!)
Contact Stenotype Educational Products Inc: - 00 1 352 475 3332, Fax: 00 1 352 475 2152, E-mail: info@StenEd.com. You must have a computer and realtime steno writer for this tutorial.
Stenograph is the main supplier of steno machines. http://www.stenograph.com.
Contact Denis Tyler of Typepart (Stenograph's UK agent) on: denistyler@btconnect.com for details of new machines, servicing and leasing arrangements.