Gerry Kennedy

Benefits of text to speech software

There are a number of popular voiced word processors that are available for MS Windows and Apple Macintosh computers. These are commercially available and some are quite expensive to purchase, especially for parents. Over and above these software packages, including Clicker 4, inteRiTalk 11, Write:Outbud V3, Inclusive Writer, TextEase 2000, Writing With Symbols 2000 V2, are some smaller less feature packed programs. These applications offer a very useful technology, known as text-to-speech (TTS). Text to Speech means that text (i.e. a letter, a number, word, phrase sentence or entire page) is voiced by either a computer-based voice (synthetic speech) or by a human voice. Many of these programs are distributed via the Web as Freeware (no cost associated and freely copiable) or as Shareware (try before you buy, possibly with a time limit for trial purposes, then you send money to the developer or programmer).

Working with words

The ability to read and write promotes and fosters learning, study and the pursuit of knowledge. A literate person is afforded the opportunity to engage the past and be a participant in the future. People have learnt to write with a quill, pen, pencil or biro, usually acquiring their writing in schools or at home with the help of a tutor. With the advent of typewriters, electronic typewriters and then computers, the ability to type and be conversant with the skills in using a keyboard have taken precedence in some areas of education.

Accessing the internet

I n order for students with disabilities I to gain equitable access to the J ^ Internet, they must be provided with solutions that are appropriate and sustainable in the classroom. Students with learning difficulties require additional support with appropriate software so that they can participate and achieve at their own level. Students who have physical disabilities need adaptive technologies and those with sensory loss, specialised equipment and software. This article will provide information for parents and teachers as to how they can support children with special needs who wish to use the Internet for study, research, learning and leisure. There is a large range of access devices that are available to accommodate students who have a physical disability, who experience short or long term incapacitaron due to trauma or injury on the sporting field or who may fatigue. To ensure that students can equitably and effectively use Internet software programs, they need to have appropriate access to the computer. An assessment of needs can be undertaken to ascertain how best to accommodate them so that they can work confidently, comfortably and be productive in a time efficient manner.