{"id":11698,"date":"2026-05-05T15:37:36","date_gmt":"2026-05-05T15:37:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.loucoll.ac.uk\/learningtechnology\/?p=11698"},"modified":"2026-05-05T15:37:36","modified_gmt":"2026-05-05T15:37:36","slug":"dictate-and-transcribe-for-assessment-feedback-and-professional-discussions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.loucoll.ac.uk\/learningtechnology\/2026\/05\/05\/dictate-and-transcribe-for-assessment-feedback-and-professional-discussions\/","title":{"rendered":"Dictate and Transcribe for assessment feedback and professional discussions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Microsoft Word includes built-in Dictate <\/strong>and Transcribe <\/strong>tools that allow teachers and business support staff to turn speech into text quickly and accurately – all you need is a microphone and a reliable internet connection. These features support more efficient ways of working while also promoting accessibility and inclusive practice.<\/p>\n\n\n

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While particularly powerful for providing detailed and timely assessment feedback<\/strong> or recording professional discussions<\/strong>, their use extends much further. From drafting emails and reports to writing meeting notes, capturing ideas on the go, or recording outcomes from staff meetings, these tools can support a wide range of day-to-day activities. They can also make a meaningful difference for staff with dyslexia or other specific learning needs. Teaching staff may find them especially useful for lesson planning, reflecting on practice, and producing documentation more efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why not give them a go?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To access Dictate and Transcribe in the Word desktop app, you will need to have the Microsoft 365 version of Word downloaded on your computer. IT support can assist you with this as needed.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Dictate<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Dictate converts your voice into text in real time. It could be used for speaking assessment feedback, drafting emails, reports, reflective notes, writing agendas, or summaries quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to access and use Dictate<\/strong> in Word<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Open a <\/strong>new or existing document <\/strong>in Microsoft Word <\/strong>(desktop app or online version).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. From the Home<\/strong> tab, select Dictate<\/strong> (microphone icon). If prompted, allow microphone access<\/strong>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Dictate will then begin listening, turning speech-to-text. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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    1. A menu will also appear with a Microphone, Settings cog and Help icons. \n