Basic Assistive Technology tools to support study
What is assistive technology?
Assistive Technology is an umbrella term encompassing computer software, online tools and specialist equipment that 'assists’ access to technology-based information. It is particularly useful for those who are disabled or neurodivergent, as well as those with English as a Second Language, but can be beneficial for all learners and meet needs of many different learning styles.
This resource collection includes an overview of a range of tools in different formats, and varying costs, but it is not a comprehensive list. There is a wide range of other resources available and new Assistive Technology tools are constantly being developed.
Key Points to Note:
Glossary
Speech-to-text – listens to your voice and types out what you are saying, like dictation. You can use verbal instructions to add formatting and grammar or add these later manually.
Text-to-speech – can read out loud written text from a page / website you are using, so you can listen to the text while (or instead of) reading it.
Screen reader – generally used by those who are blind or have low vision to read out every part of the screen, including buttons. A screen reader is a software programme that enables a blind or visually impaired user to access the text that is displayed on the computer screen with a speech synthesiser or braille display.
Microsoft's range of free tools within their products, tailored for learners and available across popular applications like Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
Extension tools that are readily available for download on various web browsers, offering online functionality across a wide array of websites.
Software tools and technologies that can work across multiple mediums on your devices and alongside other software on devices to help educators working in vocational learning.
Tools designed to assist blind and low-vision individuals in their learning journey.
These are some new tools and apps being developed regularly that learners have found useful.
Develop skills and knowledge to recognise and support learners with dyslexia, and other neurodiverse conditions, to achieve their potential.
Resources for people working with adult learners, including resources on embedding language, literacy and numeracy in a range of contexts and supporting neurodivergent learners.