Technology can help people of all ages work around their reading challenges.
Text-to-speech and audiobooks are two examples of assistive technology for reading.
Many assistive technology tools work on digital devices, but some of the most useful tools are not digital.
For people who struggle to read text, technology can be a lifeline. An audiobook, for example, allows them to read a story they might not be able to read with a traditional book.
(AT) tools for reading are inexpensive and easy to find. These tools exist on computers, smartphones, and other digital devices. But there are also low-tech options. Some of the most useful AT tools for reading are not digital.
Keep in mind that using AT doesn’t keep people from learning to read. Experts say audiobooks can actually help kids become better readers. Plus, using AT can help people become more confident and independent.
At the same time, if someone struggles to read, it’s important to get the right teaching to improve. AT tools alone will probably not improve reading skills.
Dive deeper
Here’s an overview of the most useful AT tools for reading.
Text-to-speech (TTS) lets you see text and hear it read aloud at the same time. To use this tool, you click on or highlight words, and the words are read by a computer-generated voice. TTS works with any digital text.
Optical character recognition (OCR) reads aloud text from pictures and image files. You can use OCR with worksheets and paper documents by scanning or taking photos of them. Like TTS, OCR uses computer-generated voices.
Graphic organizers are visual tools that help you keep track of information as you read. Graphic organizers can be digital or pen and paper.
Other tools to try:
Annotation tools let you take notes and write comments while reading.
Display control changes the font, font size, color, and spacing of text on screens.
Dictionaries and thesauri let you look up words you don’t understand when reading.
You can find low-tech tools like sticky notes or highlighter pens at any store that sells school or office supplies. Schools or teachers might provide tools like reading guides or graphic organizers.
AT tools for reading are also part of many computer platforms.
Desktop and laptop computers typically have built-in AT options, like TTS. You can download AT software programs for reading to add more functions to computers.
Mobile devices (like tablets and smartphones) also have built-in AT. You can add more reading tools to mobile devices with apps.
Chromebooks (and Chrome browsers on any device) alsohave built-in AT. You can add Chrome apps and extensions to help with reading even more.
To make the best use of AT tools for reading, start by understanding what kinds of tools are available. It’s helpful to get the big picture.
Then try to understand what the reading challenge is and match the right tool. If you don’t know where to start, try text-to-speech.
Watch a mom and expert explain how text-to-speech and other AT tools helped her son with dyslexia.
