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HomeWorking with the UniversityCPDSector-specific coursesCan AI do that? Exploring the safe use of speech recognition technology across law enforcement

Can AI do that? Exploring the safe use of speech recognition technology across law enforcement

Date: Wednesday 15th April 2026

Time: 14:00 - 16:00 (GMT)

Online (University of York)

Course Leader: FoSS Team - Forensic Speech Science at the University of York

This two hour online workshop will explore the value of speech technology to policing, with a focus on automatic transcription and speech recognition. This technology offers opportunities to support those across policing who rely on written records of spoken interactions. In this workshop we will explore how written records are used across policing and demonstrate the capabilities of speech recognition when tested with realistic data. In addition to considering opportunities, this workshop will also address limitations associated with AI-based transcriptions and highlight conditions which are likely to be problematic. 

The course will provide participants with:

  • Increased understanding of automatic speech recognition
  • Awareness of key performance metrics and what these mean
  • Knowledge of the differences between human and machine transcription

Course booking

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Course Overview

The workshop will take place online. The course will be an introduction to speech recognition. The workshop will involve lecture style content and opportunities for discussion.

Tutors

Lauren Harrington
Lauren is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Language and Linguistic Science at the University of York. She has undertaken research on the production of transcripts for use in the criminal justice system and is actively engaging with police and government stakeholders regarding the use of AI technologies for the transcription of speech. Lauren is also the founder of the new International Network for Forensic Transcription, strengthening the relationship between forensic practice and academic research.

James Tompkinson
James is a Lecturer in Sociolinguistics in the Department of Language and Linguistic Science at the University of York. He is involved in the design and delivery of CPD training courses in FoSS. James teaches across a range of subjects including phonetics, sociolinguistics, forensic linguistics, forensic speech science and attitudes towards spoken and written language. He is involved in a range of research projects across these areas and has a core interest in research which has direct practical applications in forensic and legal settings.

Costs

Costs

Standard rates:

Standard Rate
£85

VAT is not payable. Registration fees are fully inclusive of:  

  • Tuition
  • Course materials 

Registration is done online by Credit/Debit Card for instant payment and a guaranteed secured place on the course (please note the University of York does not accept American Express cards).