Assistive Technology
According to The Dyslexia Association (2020), there is a wide range of PC hardware and software as well as a number of handheld devices that are specifically designed to make life easier for people with dyslexia.
devices designed to make life with dyslexia easier
Speech recognition software. This allows users to dictate or talk to a computer that uses software to convert this to text.
Text-to-speech software. This allows individuals to understand written material they are presented with and to proof-read or check their own work.
Mind mapping software. This is specifically designed to allow dyslexics to plan their work more effectively.
Scanning software and hand reading pens. These allow the user to store and listen to the text found in books and other documents.
There are smartpens that can be used to write text, but which track the text being written and recreate the notes in digital form. The pen can then upload the text to a smart phone, PC or tablet.
Tablets, Smartphones and Applications. There are a wide range of hardware platforms and software applications that can help individuals to manage their time and task list more effectively or work in conjunction with other hardware devices such as smartpens.
Computer based learning programs. These are specifically written for dyslexics and can help to sharpen their skills in reading, writing, touch-typing and numeracy.
Speech Recognition Software: Dragon Naturally Speaking
Likely the most recognizable and preferred voice recognition and dictation program is Dragon NaturallySpeaking, which comes in a variety of versions with different features for various applications. The basic version, with the bare minimum features, costs $49.99. The professional and enterprise versions go up to $500.Speech recognition software is a computer program that types words as you speak them into a microphone. So you can use your voice to type emails, documents, and Facebook and blog posts. Think of it as replacing the keyboard with your speech.
Text-to-Speech Software
Each license allowed for installation and use on one computer only.Access to 2-6 Premium voices, additional voices are $39.50 each.One-time payment.
NaturalReader is a downloadable text-to-speech desktop software for personal use. This easy-to-use software with natural-sounding voices can read to you any text such as Microsoft Word files, webpages, PDF files, and E-mails. Available with a one-time payment for a perpetual license.
Mind Mapping Software
Cost ranges from 3 free mind maps to $12.49 per month.MindMeister is a beautifully designed, cloud-based mind mapping tool that lets you visually capture, develop, and share ideas. Used alone or with a team, MindMeister allows you to easily collaborate, share, and present from anywhere in the world.
Spell checkers
Cost is $145 annually.Spell checkers are specifically designed with dyslexia in mind to automatically make corrections to written communications
Millions of students in schools and in higher education rely on Read&Write to help with reading, writing assignments and online research.
