London, Aug 25: A computer system that generates simple word-play jokes could help disabled children develop better language skills, according to UK researchers.

The system uses a database of word definitions, sounds and syntax to generate simple play-on-words jokes, or puns, on a chosen subject. Called the System to Augment Non-speakers` Dialogue Using Puns (STANDUP), it was developed by Annalu Waller at Dundee University, UK, who has arranged for eight children with cerebral palsy to test the system.

"At the moment these children must use pre-stored phrases to communicate," Waller told New Scientist. "They can`t write so they can`t type what they want to say." Waller admits that some of the jokes generated are "pretty appalling" but says STANDUP has delighted children during testing. "At its most basic, all the children need to do is press a button to generate a new joke," she says. "They can also choose a topic word like `parents` to have a joke on a particular subject." (ANI)

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