Integrated Keystroke Logging & Think Aloud

A browser-based tool for L2 writing research. Record writing processes and L1 verbalizations simultaneously, with automatic transcription and detailed event analysis.

Free for research and teaching · CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

About the Tool

TypeFlow SPEAK is a specialized module within the TypeFlow ecosystem designed for writing process research. It captures the writing event stream (keystrokes, pauses, focus) while simultaneously recording the participant's "Think Aloud" verbalizations in their L1. As a web-based tool, it runs directly in the browser, requiring only microphone permissions to function.

Key Features for Research

Keystroke & Event Logging

Inheriting the core TypeFlow engine, SPEAK records every keystroke, pause, and focus event. Data is exported into the standard TypeFlow Excel workbook, including bursting analysis and revision summaries.

Think Aloud (L1) Recording

Records high-quality audio in parallel with the writing task. The interface displays a "Recording Audio (L1)" status. Researchers can configure the Think Aloud language (ES, EN, DE, FR) for accurate processing.

On-the-fly Transcription

Speech segments are transcribed, time-stamped, and compiled into a transcript document. Major speech events are also injected into the Event Stream log for integrated analysis of text production and verbalization.

Researcher-Ready Exports

Upon session completion, the system bundles data into XLSX, TXT, DOCX, and Audio files. These are saved locally and automatically emailed to the researcher address configured in the session setup.

Session Metadata

Easy configuration for Participant ID, Session, Group, Target Language (writing), and Think Aloud Language. Metadata is preserved across all output files to ensure data integrity.

Free & Open

TypeFlow SPEAK is free to use for research and educational purposes. The tool and generated data structures are licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0, promoting accessible science.

How it Works in a Study

1

Configure Session

Enter the Participant code, Session ID, and Researcher Email. Select the Target Language for writing and the L1 language for the Think Aloud transcription.

2

Write & Speak

Click "Start". The participant writes in the editor while verbalizing their thoughts. The top bar tracks time, word count, and confirms L1 audio recording is active.

3

Stop & Export

Click "Stop & Export". Wait 10–15 seconds for file processing. The browser will download the data package and email a copy to the researcher.

Outputs & Data Structure

TypeFlow SPEAK generates a comprehensive dataset for every session, combining product, process, and audio data.

  • Standard TypeFlow Excel Workbook (Event Stream, Pausing, Bursts)
  • Final Text (.docx and .txt)
  • Think Aloud Audio File
  • Time-stamped Transcript Document

For Research

Designed for L2 writing studies, process-tracing, and stimulated recall methodologies. TypeFlow SPEAK provides granular temporal data combined with verbal protocols, allowing researchers to analyze the cognitive processes behind writing fluency and revision behaviors.

For Teaching

A valuable tool for classroom tasks and writer training. Teachers can use the playback and transcription data for reflection activities, helping students become aware of their own writing strategies, pausing patterns, and revision habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to install software?

No. TypeFlow SPEAK is entirely browser-based. It runs on modern web browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) without any installation.

How is the data saved?

When you click "Stop & Export", the files are generated and downloaded locally to the participant's computer. Simultaneously, an email containing the files is sent to the researcher's address configured at the start of the session.

Which languages are supported for Think Aloud?

The interface allows you to select the Think Aloud (L1) language for accurate transcription. Currently supported languages in the menu include Spanish (ES), English (EN), German (DE), and French (FR).

Does it require a microphone?

Yes. To use the Think Aloud features, the participant must grant microphone permission to the browser. The interface will indicate if the recording is active.

Is it really free?

Yes. TypeFlow SPEAK is free to use for research and teaching purposes under the Creative Commons BY-NC-ND 4.0 license.