Literacy Software
Links for Literacy Software (some freeware and shareware included)
For a comparison of literacy software features, see the National Center for Technology Innovation's Techmatrix.
Text to Speech
Audio Bookmaker
Text reading software for Windows XP.
Balaboka
Text-to-Speech program for Windows XP. Can read e-books.
E-Text Reader
Text reader with bookmarking and multiple format support.
IVONA
Background program that reads aloud any text on computer screen.
Kurzweil 3000
Powerful education software for multiple platforms with text to speech and study aids.
Lexia Early Reading - IT Education Co.
Reading aid program with lessons, tests, and iPad app
NaturalReader
Text reader with audio conversion and OCR
Nonvisual desktop access (NVDA)
Open source text reader with Braille support
Open Book 6.X
Scanning and text reading software for printed media
PowerTalk - free version available
Reads text in PowerPoint presentation as slides appear.
Premier Assistive Technologies
Offers a suite of reading assistance programs for Windows and Mac
Text Help
Toolbar and web-based text readers for Windows and Mac
2nd Speech Center
Document and webpage reader with multiple language support
Speaktext
Simple text to speech program with batch text file conversion
Spoken Text
Online service can convert copied text into a downloadable recording
TalkMail - free version available
Lets you send high quality audio messages to any e-mail address
Text Aloud MP3
Reads text from multiple sources and saves to several formats
Ultimate Reading Machine
Text reader and converter integrates into Outlook and has variable reading speed
WordTalk
Microsoft Word plugin (for all versions) that reads and highlights text
Wynn or Wynn Wizard
Highlights text as it is read
VozMe
Web application creates downloadable audio file for typed text
Free OCR
Upload a file (jpg, gif, 1 page pdf) and have it converted to text
WebReader
Audio Pal
Allows users to convert text to audio and embed it in a website
BrowseAloud
In-browser text reader for websites with highlighting
Click Speak
Firefox extension designed for sighted users who want text-to-speech
Easy Reader
E-book reader with highlighting
Readability
Browser add-on and App that extracts content from web pages for easier reading
TechDis AT Toolbar
Browser toolbar that provides text reading and spell checking
WebAnywhere
Allows you to type in a webpage and have the service read out the contents in your browser
Spelling, Grammar, and Word Prediction
Autotext
Lets you assign acronymes to commonly typed phrased to reduce the amount of typing
Click N’ Type
Free virtual keyboard with many features
Co:Writer
Word prediction software for students with spelling and grammar correction
Ginger Software
Real-time correction of grammar mistakes in typing
Ghotit Context Spell Check
Text reader plus spelling and grammar correction
LetmeType
Offers suggestions for misspelled words
Writing Sample Analyzer
Browser-based text analyzer determined readability of pasted text
Spell Checker
Online spell checker, grammar and thesaurus
Free Online Spell Checker
Corrects spelling in pasted text for multiple languages
Free Spell
Downloadable spell checker to work with all Windows-based programs
Adapted Books
Accessibility and E-Readers
List of popular e-readers and their accessibility features
Alive Text to Speech
Converts selected text into audio file or reads it aloud
Blio
E-book reading app with text to speek and many other features
CC Prose
CC Prose combines audio, large print text, synchronized closed captions classic literature. Uses machine translations in multiple languages.
Digital Books Index
Sources for free, downloadable and web-based e-books
eBook Library at the University of Virginia
Direct access to 1,800 free Microsoft Reader files
IntelliTools Classroom Suite
K-8 education suite can be tailored to individual student needs
International Children’s Digital Library
Collection of digital books from around the world
Start to Finish Books
Specially written books in several formats for children below normal reading level
Writing
Draft: Builder
Writing assistance program that breaks composition down into parts to increase focus
Kidspiration or Inspiration
Graphic organizers and concept mapping
Text Compactor
Online tool for trimming down lengthy writing
Write Outloud
Writing assistant reads word aloud as they're typed
Text to MP3
Spoken Text
Translate text into speech and download the audio file
Yakitome
Type or paste text and online tool will read it or send audio file to e-mail address
ZAMZAR
Online file conversion. Supports documents, audio, video, e-books, and archives