Assistive technology for reading can be a game-changer for learners who struggle with traditional reading and writing tasks. This technology includes tools like text-to-speech applications and devices, which read aloud text to the learner, and speech-to-text applications, which convert spoken words into written text. This article will explain more about each type.
Text-to-Speech Applications and Devices
Text-to-speech (TTS) technology converts written text into spoken words. This technology can be used with digital text on computers, tablets, smartphones, and with physical text through reader pens and other specialised devices.
How this helps
TTS tools allow students to listen to complex texts that they might find difficult to read on their own. This is particularly useful for learners who struggle with decoding, reading fluency, or comprehension. By hearing the text, students can focus on understanding the content rather than being slowed down by the mechanics of reading. TTS is also a useful tool for learners to edit their work by helping them to read it back.
Assistive technology can be expensive. Seek advice before purchasing, and always start with the free, inbuilt tools that already exist in devices and operating programmes. If you are buying as a parent, discuss options with the school, and if your child is primary age, find out what types of assistive technology is available at the secondary school they are likely to attend. It's really important for learners to know their way around computers and devices, so time supporting this is well spent.
Recommended tool
OrCam Read
OrCam Read is a portable, handheld device that captures printed or digital text and reads it aloud to the user. It uses a camera to scan full pages of text and can even read off screens, which is a standout feature compared to other reader pens.
Key features:
Full Page Capture: Unlike scanning pens that require you to scan line by line.
Screen Reading: It can read text from digital screens such as computer monitors, smartphones, and tablets.
Simple Interface: No need for internet connectivity or complicated setup—just point and click to capture text.
Pros
Fast and efficient, (less time spent scanning line by line)
Can capture text from both paper and screens.
Cons
More expensive than traditional scanning pens.
Larger than standard reader pens.
Recommended tool
C-Pen Reader
The C-Pen Reader 2 is a versatile text-to-speech tool designed for individuals with reading difficulties. Unlike the Exam Reader, this version includes additional functionalities, such as dictionary and translation features, making it suitable for everyday learning and reading support. It reads aloud scanned text, offers translation support, and provides word definitions to assist users in real-time.
Key Features:
Provides word definitions, making it helpful for vocabulary building and comprehension.
Can translate text between multiple languages, aiding bilingual or multilingual students.
Compact design for easy transport, with text-to-speech playback via headphones.
Stores scanned text, allowing users to review content later or export it to other devices.
Pros
Offers dictionary and translation support for additional reading assistance.
Portable and easy to carry for on-the-go use.
Ideal for non-exam settings with enhanced functionality.
Cons
Not permitted in exams due to extra features like dictionary and storage.
Requires manual scanning of text; cannot capture from screens.
Recommended tool
C-Pen Exam Reader 2
The C-Pen Exam Reader is specifically designed for use during exams, where students with reading difficulties need reading support but cannot access extra resources like a dictionary or internet. It’s a straightforward text-to-speech tool that reads aloud scanned text in exam conditions.
Key features:
Exam Compliance: It’s designed to be used in exams as it doesn’t store or provide word definitions.
Portable & Lightweight: Easy to carry and reads text aloud with headphones to prevent disruption during exams.
Multi-Language Support: Can read text in various languages, which is helpful for multi-lingual students.
Pros
Fully exam-compliant
Focused on reading aloud without extra features.
Lightweight and easily portable.
Cons
No additional functionality
Only reads scanned text / can’t capture text from screens.
Recommended tool
Read&Write
TextHelp offers a variety of assistive technologies, including text-to-speech tools that read digital text aloud. Their products, such as Read&Write, are designed for use on computers or mobile devices.
Key features:
Digital Text Reading: Reads text from any document or webpage, making it flexible for use in a variety of contexts, from reading assignments to research.
Screen Reader Functionality: It supports reading aloud from websites, PDFs, and other digital formats.
Word Highlighting: As the text is read aloud, it highlights each word to aid comprehension.
Pros
Can read any digital content.
Ideal for use in classroom or home settings where students are working with computers or digital devices.
Cons
Requires access to a digital device
Dependent on internet or software installation
Recommended tool
Claro Read (7-11s)
ClaroRead is a literacy support tool designed to aid young learners (ages 7-11) with reading and writing difficulties. This software uses text-to-speech technology to help students with dyslexia or other literacy challenges read text aloud and improve comprehension. Additional features, such as spellcheck and word prediction, provide further support for writing.
Key Features:
Reads text aloud, enhancing reading comprehension and supporting struggling readers.
Offers predictive text and spellcheck to help students with writing, suggesting words as they type.
Allows adjustments to voice speed, font, and background colour for a personalised learning experience.
Highlights each word as it’s read, aiding in tracking and focus.
Pros
Easy-to-use interface suited to younger students (7-11).
Improves reading and writing confidence through supportive features.
Personalisation options enhance accessibility for students with specific needs.
Cons
Limited advanced features for older or more proficient learners.
Requires headphones or speakers for text-to-speech in classroom settings.
Recommended tool
Clicker
Clicker is an inclusive literacy tool that supports reading and writing development for primary school students, particularly those with SEN (Special Educational Needs). With features like word banks, voice recording, and sentence-building tools, Clicker helps young learners structure their ideas and improve literacy skills in an engaging way.
Key Features:
Offers word banks and tools to help students construct sentences and develop vocabulary.
Reads back what students write, helping them understand sentence structure and catch errors.
Enables students to record their own voices, promoting oral language skills and supporting reluctant writers.
Teachers can tailor content to each student’s needs, making it adaptable to various learning levels.
Pros
Highly interactive, with engaging tools like word banks and voice recording.
Customisable support allows for differentiated learning.
Suitable for younger students or those with specific literacy difficulties.
Cons
Some features may be too basic for advanced learners.
Requires teacher setup and guidance to maximise benefits.
Recommended tool
DocsPlus (11+)
DocsPlus is designed for secondary school students (ages 11+) who need support with reading, writing, and organising their ideas. This software offers tools like word prediction, speech feedback, and mind mapping, making it a powerful tool for students with literacy difficulties who are preparing for exams and more complex assignments.
Key Features:
Provides word suggestions to assist with spelling and vocabulary, helping students compose written work more efficiently.
Reads back students’ writing to help them review and correct their work independently.
Supports planning and idea organisation, useful for structuring essays and projects.
Includes a special mode that can be used in exams where approved, ensuring compliance with exam board rules.
Pros
Comprehensive tool for older students with advanced literacy needs.
Mind mapping feature aids with planning and structuring complex assignments.
Exam-friendly mode supports students in a controlled testing environment.
Cons
Less engaging for younger users due to a more formal interface.
Requires training or initial setup for full functionality.
Recommended tool
Read&Write
TextHelp offers a variety of assistive technologies, including text-to-speech tools that read digital text aloud. Their products, such as Read&Write, are designed for use on computers or mobile devices.
Key features:
Digital Text Reading: Reads text from any document or webpage, making it flexible for use in a variety of contexts, from reading assignments to research.
Screen Reader Functionality: It supports reading aloud from websites, PDFs, and other digital formats.
Word Highlighting: As the text is read aloud, it highlights each word to aid comprehension.
Pros
Can read any digital content.
Ideal for use in classroom or home settings where students are working with computers or digital devices.
Cons
Requires access to a digital device
Dependent on internet or software installation
Speech-to-text Applications
Speech-to-text (STT) technology converts spoken language into written text. This technology is particularly useful for students who struggle with writing due to difficulties with spelling, grammar, or the physical act of writing.
How this helps
STT tools enable students to get their ideas onto paper quickly and efficiently, without being held back by the mechanics of writing. This can be especially empowering for learners who have a lot to say but struggle to communicate through traditional writing methods. STT helps remove this barrier, allowing students to focus on content creation.
Recommended
Voice typing in word processors
Many modern word processors, such as Google Docs and Microsoft Word, include built-in voice typing or dictation features that allow students to speak into a microphone, and the software transcribes their speech into text. These tools offer basic speech-to-text (STT) functionality without requiring additional software.
Key features:
Accessibility: Students can start using speech-to-text instantly without needing third-party software. Both tools are available for free with Google Docs and Microsoft Word subscriptions.
Basic Speech-to-Text: Users can dictate their words directly into the document.
Cross-Device Functionality: These features are available across devices, whether on a computer, tablet, or phone.
Pros
Free and easy to access for anyone using these word processors.
No need for external software installations.
Suitable for simple, quick dictations, note-taking, and drafting short documents.
Cons
Limited Accuracy
Basic Features
Internet Dependence
Recommended tool
Nuance Dragon
Dragon Professional 16 is an advanced dictation software programs, designed to provide accurate speech-to-text transcription. It is widely used by students, professionals, and individuals with disabilities who need reliable dictation for long-form content.
Key features:
High Accuracy: Dragon uses advanced AI to adapt to individual speech patterns.
Multi-Device Synchronisation: Dictation can be synced across devices.
Offline Capabilities: Dragon doesn’t require an internet connection.
Pros
High-level Accuracy: Far more accurate than built-in voice typing tools, particularly for long documents or when dealing with specialised vocabulary.
Customisation: Extensive control over voice commands and document formatting, making it a powerful tool for users with specific needs.
Offline Use: Works without an internet connection, so it’s useful in all environments.
Cons
Cost: Dragon is a premium product, with higher pricing compared to free built-in options.
Learning Curve: Requires some time to set up and train for maximum accuracy and customisation.