Text-to-speech Software
Overview
Transforming written text into audio activates different parts of the brain to support learning. Providing tools so learners can choose to listen supports individual strengths and needs.
Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom
Watch how text-to-speech software helps a student who struggles with reading. By using his Auditory Processing skills, this student can comprehend complex reading material, including math reading such as word problems and directions.
Design It into Your Product
Videos are chosen as examples of strategies in action. These choices are not endorsements of the products or evidence of use of research to develop the feature.
Learn how developers of Read&Write for Google use text-to-speech software in combination with other features to provide multisensory support for reading. The ability to highlight words for an audio pronunciation with an accompanying visual activates verbal and visual Working Memory and can be particularly helpful for word problem vocabulary for all learners. Highlighting the spoken word in a different color from the yellow highlighted sentence also strengthens Visual Processing skills through tracking.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Multisensory Supports Strategies
Adding motions to complement learning activates more cognitive processes for recall and understanding.
Short breaks that include mindfulness quiet the brain to allow for improved thinking and emotional regulation.
Brain breaks that include movement allow learners to refresh their thinking and focus on learning new information.
Providing physical and virtual representations of numbers and math concepts helps activate mental processes.
Connecting information to music and dance can support Short-term and Long-term Memory by engaging auditory processes, Emotions, and physical activity.
Incorporating multiple senses with strategies like chewing gum, using a fidget, and sitting on a ball chair supports focus and Attention.
Using earplugs or headphones can increase focus and comfort.
Visual supports, like text magnification, colored overlays, and guided reading strip, help students focus and properly track as they read.
