Post date: Jan 28, 2014 3:2:34 PM
In today's technology age, it is essential for educators to involve technology in all subjects. No doubt, the writing process is evolving because of access to digital tools. The use of text-to-speech and audio playback is an excellent writing resource. It assists students in the process of self-editing their writing assignments. Young & Stover (2013) proclaim, "The strategy helps students to see errors and possible revisions in their writing that can easily by overlooked".
The use of audio playback during the writing process also allows students to work more independently. They can attempt their own revisions and edits before conferring with the teacher. As a former 3rd grade teacher with no assistant, I remember independent writing lessons with a line of no less than five students at my desk waiting for help. It was often daunting, overwhelming and frustrating. I believe teachers would welcome the opportunity to use text-to-speech in their classroom as it allows more quality one-on-one time to conference with students.
Young, C., & Stover, K. (August, 2013). "LOOK WHAT I DID!" Student Conferences With Text-to-Speech Software. Reading Teacher, 67(4), 269-272.