1. A method for controlling a speech recognition function for a data processing system, the data processing system having a display, a speech recognition input device, and a cursor control device, the cursor control device having a first selector and a second selector separate from the first selector, the method comprising the steps of: (a) displaying at least one object and a moveable cursor on the display; (b) controlling the moveable cursor on the display in x and y directions simultaneously in response to user-manipulation of the cursor control device; (c) selecting one of the at least one object displayed on the display in response to user-manipulation of the cursor control device and user-manipulation of the first selector of the cursor control device; (d) activating the speech recognition function in response to engagement of the second selector of the cursor control device; (e) inputting a spoken command for the data processing system by the speech recognition input device; and (f) deactivating the speech recognition function in response to disengagement of the second selector of the cursor control device.