While engaged in conversation with a neighbour of an ex-girlfriend’s second cousin ( yes – we were talking that long to establish that fact) over the summer, I was asked to suggest some tools that could help her son who was diagnosed with dyslexia. As it was a topic that I had not researched, or had a meaningful conversation on in quite a while, I volunteered to have a look and share what was out there. So in the absence of the nine Greek muses providing any inspiration for this blog post, I will share the fruits of that good deed below.
So dyslexia is a learning disorder impacting reading, writing, and spelling skills, and presents unique challenges for students. Fortunately, there is an array of digital tools and assistive technologies designed to empower dyslexic learners. Let’s explore some options I came across:
- Text-to-Speech Tools:
- Natural Reader: This tool converts written content, including documents, websites, PDFs, and emails, into spoken words. It boasts natural-sounding voices, offering dyslexic students an auditory alternative to reading.
- ReachDeck Toolbar: Designed for web navigation on Windows, ReachDeck strips web pages down to essential text, making it easier for users with dyslexia to focus on content. It also includes text-to-speech functionality with a magnifying glass icon tracking the spoken text.
- Speech-to-Text Tools:
- Google Docs Voice Typing: Google Docs features “voice typing,” allowing students to dictate their notes and documents. Simply click on the microphone icon and speak.
- Speechnotes: This web-based tool enables quick note dictation and includes features for transcribing and adding punctuation.
- Dyslexia-Friendly Fonts:
- OpenDyslexic for Chrome: This Chrome extension overrides web page fonts with the dyslexia-friendly OpenDyslexic font, enhancing readability.
- BeeLine Reader: Utilizing color gradients, BeeLine Reader guides students’ eyes from one line to the next, enhancing reading speed and comprehension. It also offers an OpenDyslexic Font option.
- Mind Mapping Tools:
- MindMeister: An online tool for collaborative mind mapping, ideal for group projects and visualizing information, which can be especially effective for dyslexic students.
- Google Drawings: A user-friendly tool for creating mind maps, offering the ability to draw shapes, add text, and connect ideas, fostering creativity and organization.
- Audio Books & Bookshare Services:
- Bookshare: This platform provides text-to-speech audiobooks, enabling students to listen, follow along with highlighting, read in braille or large font, and customize their reading experience.
- Learning Ally: Another valuable resource offering text-to-speech audiobooks, encompassing educational texts and literature for dyslexic students.
- Note-taking Apps with Audio Integration:
- OneNote with Learning Tools: Featuring an ‘Immersive Reader’ mode, OneNote reads and highlights text simultaneously, aiding comprehension.
- Notability: An iPad app allowing students to take notes, annotate PDFs, and record lectures for later playback.
These tools not only provide essential support for dyslexic students but can also ignite a passion for learning. They contribute to classroom accessibility and success for all students. Keep in mind that the effectiveness of these tools may vary from person to person, so it’s crucial to identify the ones that work best for each individual.