Text to Speech and Sensory Readable: Empowering People with Dyslexia

Dyslexia, a learning disorder affecting reading and language processing, can pose challenges in various aspects of life. Fortunately, technology has introduced powerful tools to support individuals with dyslexia, such as text-to-speech support and the innovative software Sensory Readable for Windows.

Text-to-speech technology converts written text into spoken words, offering an alternative method of accessing information for people with dyslexia. This improves reading comprehension by allowing a focus on understanding the content rather than struggling with decoding individual words. Additionally, it can help reading fluency through new synchronised audio-visual highlighting in the Microsoft apps such as Word, Edge browser, Outlook and more.

Sensory Readable for Windows takes text-to-speech to the next level. This innovative software provides real-time spoken feedback of the words under the mouse cursor, making reading more accessible. It can assist with reading difficulties, slow reading speeds, or those who prefer to listen while interacting with their computer. It even acts as an automatic proof-reader, allowing you to listen back to your written creations and identify most errors.

The software’s fresh design enhances the audio experience, making it effortless to listen to research documents, reports, e-mails, news feeds, and more.

It is worth noting that Sensory Readable is compatible with Windows 10 and 11, ensuring accessibility on the latest operating systems. Furthermore, it has received approval for funding by Student Finance England for the Disabled Students Allowance, making it accessible to students with dyslexia and other reading and concentration difficulties. Sensory works closely with Remtek to ensure full training and support is available.

In conclusion, text-to-speech technology can empower individuals with dyslexia. By converting written text into spoken words, these tools enhance reading comprehension, improve fluency, and support writing. They provide a more inclusive and accessible learning and working environment, enabling individuals with dyslexia to thrive.

Sensory Readable history

Sensory Readable is the creation of Paul Blenkhorn, Emeritus Professor of Assistive Technology at Manchester University. Paul, the creator of ClaroRead in 2004, has been a pioneer in the field of assistive technology. He also developed the first Windows Narrator tool for Microsoft, which helps blind users access Windows using speech. With his expertise and dedication to accessibility, Paul has played a vital role in advancing technologies that empower individuals with dyslexia and other disabilities.

Check out Sensory Readable’s YouTube video here.

Get involved

If you are a student, industry professional or DSA business we would like you to get involved. We’re always looking for feedback and ‘Student Champions’ for Remtek Students to improve the student journey.

If you have advice or information that could be useful to students get in touch today. Contact Danielle at danielle@clickstartmarketing.org.