A scribe, also known as a writer, writes or types information that is communicated to them by another person. A scribe does not interpret information or perform essential job functions.
A scribe may be someone on staff, a volunteer, or someone hired specifically to work as a scribe. The term ‘qualified scribe’ means that the person is capable of clearly writing the information and is familiar with the terminology of the subject matter.
Providing a scribe during the pre-employment phase may assist a person complete a job application or answer questions on a pre-employment exam.
A scribe may assist an employee perform tasks such as completing a report or preparing for a presentation.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
People whose ability to write or type is impaired may require a scribe. The impairment may result in:
- a total inability to type or write, for example some people with quadriplegia or cerebral palsy
- a reduced speed or loss of endurance for writing, for example a person with muscular dystrophy or an injury to the dominant hand or arm
- pain upon writing, for example in the case of overuse injury or some forms of arthritis.
People with disability which restricts their ability to maintain the posture needed for writing or typing may also require a scribe such as those with severe back pain.
People who present information better in an oral form than in a written form may require a scribe such as some people with a learning disability.
There are also a number of types of adaptive technologies to assist people who may have difficulty writing or typing:
References
Job Accommodation Network 2008, Personal Assistance Services (WPAS) in the Workplace, Office of Disability Employment Policy U.S. Department of Labor, West Virginia, viewed 5 December 2011, http://www.jan.wvu.edu/media/PAS.html.
Queensland University of Technology 2008, Alternative Examination Strategies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, viewed 5 December 2011, http://www.disabilityservices.qut.edu.au/staff/guideforstaf/alternative/.