ReadSpeaker

ReadSpeaker is a suite of text-to-speech (TTS) tools to read aloud digital text. The tools are available on mobile devices and desktop computers to all registered BCIT Students and Staff who have access to the Learning Hub and the Employee Learning Centre. Depending on which TTS software is used, text can be read aloud on a webpage, electronic document, communication tool, or other software e.g. MS Word. Typically, this software provides for various configuration and playback options such as reading area, highlighting, font type and size, reading speed, voice gender and voice accent. ReadSpeaker tools are compatible with all the main browsers. No downloading and installation is required.

In collaboration with ReadSpeaker, BCIT has implemented two ReadSpeaker tools: WebReader and DocReader to the Learning Hub and Employee Learning Centre.

Benefits

ReadSpeaker has benefits for all users. It makes learning more accessible and convenient by addressing different learning modalities which include auditory and visual learning and controlling how material is presented. Improvements are reported in recalling, comprehension, focus, recognition and motivation. Users with learning challenges, visual impairment, English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners, multi-taskers, mobile learners, learners with differentiated learning styles or those who suffer from screen fatigue may benefit from this tool.

Limitations

ReadSpeaker tools can make “content” material accessible, however WebReader and DocReader are not as robust as screen readers and don’t allow the user to enter commands to control what is read aloud and to inform users when changes occur on screen. ReadSpeaker cannot read menus, the course home page, descriptions in the “contents” area, a blog, form, survey, ePortfolio, chat, assignment or external websites.

To maintain quiz integrity, certain features in WebReader have been disabled by BCIT. These include MP3 download, translate and dictionary functions. The MP3 feature is only available through the DocReader tool.

If you are looking for these features in a text-to-speech tool, please check Read & Write.

WebReader reads aloud text in a webpage file added in the “content” area of a course. It also reads contents in a quiz.

Features:

Allows options to control volume and speed of reading.
Settings include highlighting, changing colours, increase/decrease font size to suit individual needs.
Page Mask option allows user to focus on specific points on the screen.
The text mode option provides an easy-to-read format, using font, size, and colors of your choice.

How to access the WebReader Tool?
When accessing a webpage in the ‘content’ area of a course, a floating toolbar will appear in the top left corner of your page. The toolbar can easily be moved around your webpage.

DocReader reads aloud documents added to the “content” area of a course. It can be used to read documents such as: MS Word, PDF, Excel, PowerPoint and .RTF documents.

Features:

Option to download document as a MP3 file for offline listening.
Ability to add a reading ruler and to mask a page for improving screen focus.
Collect and download highlights (great for capturing main ideas and supporting details).
Settings allow users to change voice, reading speed, reading area, and font type and size in view in text mode.

How to access the DocReader Tool?
When a document is posted in the “content” area of a course, it can be opened through DocReader. This option appears at the bottom of the window once the document has been opened. Once the document has been opened, the DocReader tool and controls will appear at the top left corner of the document window.

Additional Resources

ReadSpeaker BCIT Course

WebReader overview from ReadSpeaker.com

Please contact Accessibility Services to book an appointment to meet with your Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist and discuss how ReadSpeaker software can support your specific needs.