Assistive technology is a game-changer in education, especially for students with learning differences such as dyslexia. By incorporating tools that read text aloud, adjust visual elements, and improve focus, these technologies make reading more accessible and engaging for students who may otherwise struggle with traditional text. This guide explores popular read-aloud features across various devices and programs, helping you find the best solutions to support your students’ learning.

Getting Started: Understanding Your Technology Options

Before diving into specific read-aloud tools, it’s important to identify the technology your students are using. Whether they’re working on a Chromebook, iPad, Mac, or using a browser-based solution, each setup has unique assistive features to enhance reading comprehension. Below, we break down read-aloud capabilities for various devices, starting with one of the most powerful tools: Microsoft’s Immersive Reader.

‍

1. Microsoft Immersive Reader: Boosting Focus and Comprehension

What is an Immersive Reader?
Immersive Reader is a Microsoft tool designed to support reading and comprehension by adjusting elements like font size, line spacing, background color, and text style. These customizable features help make text easier to read, and its read-aloud functionality allows students to hear text instead of reading it alone—a key benefit for students with dyslexia who may have difficulty decoding words on a page.

Where Can I Use It?
Immersive Reader is integrated into Microsoft Word, Outlook, Teams, and OneNote, with desktop and online options. It’s also available in the Edge browser, where it can read web pages aloud—a fantastic option for research assignments and independent reading.

• Step-by-Step Guides:some text
  • Use Immersive Reader in Word
  • Use Immersive Reader for Outlook
  • Use Immersive Reader in the Edge browser
• How-To Video:some text
  • Watch this how-to video for a demonstration of Immersive Reader’s read-aloud and dictation features in Microsoft Word.

‍

2. Google Docs and Chrome Extensions for Read Aloud

For those using Google Workspace or Chrome-based devices, there are several Chrome extensions that allow text to be read aloud.

Setting Up a Read Aloud Extension in Google Chrome
Extensions offer various read-aloud options, each with unique features and customization. Here’s a quick guide to getting started:

1. Find and Add an Extension:
   Visit the Chrome Web Store and search for "read" to find read-aloud extensions. Review options, then select and click "Add to Chrome."
2. Set Up Your Extension:
   After installation, sign in if required, and pin your extension for quick access.
3. Activate the Read Aloud Feature:
   Open a Google Doc and click on your new extension to start listening. Some extensions open in a new window, while others will read directly within the document.

Tip: Avoid enabling multiple read-aloud extensions simultaneously, as they may interfere with each other’s functionality.

‍

3. iPad and iPhone: Using iOS Speak Selection

Apple’s iOS devices come with a built-in read-aloud feature called “Speak Selection,” making it easy for students to hear text from their iPads and iPhones. Here’s how to activate it:

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility.
2. Select Spoken Content and toggle on Speak Selection.
3. For text highlighting, enable Highlight Content.

Once activated, simply select the text you want to hear and tap “Speak” for a smooth, built-in reading experience. Full video instructions here.

‍

4. MacBook: Enabling Speech for Read Aloud

If your students use MacBooks, Apple’s Accessibility settings offer an easy way to read text aloud. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Go to System Preferences > Accessibility.
2. Choose Speech from the sidebar.
3. Enable Speak selected text when the key is pressed. The default shortcut is "Option + Esc."

Students can customize the shortcut if needed, making it accessible for ongoing use in the classroom. After enabling, they can simply highlight text and press the shortcut to begin, with the same shortcut pausing the speech.

‍

Supporting All Learners with Assistive Technology

For students with dyslexia, accessing text can often be a big challenge, but assistive technology can provide a powerful solution. Tools like read-aloud features and visual adjustments enable these students to better comprehend and retain information by removing barriers to reading. By using these tools, educators can create a more inclusive classroom, where students with dyslexia can engage with material more independently and confidently. These assistive technologies not only make learning more accessible but also empower all students to reach their potential, regardless of their unique learning needs.

‍

Want more assisitive technology content like this? Assisitive technology tips and guides are provided throughout every lesson of the Writing Our World curriculum.

‍

‍