Dyslexia tools for computer

Struggling with reading, writing, or spelling due to dyslexia? Here are some handy dyslexia tools for computers to help you overcome any technological challenges.

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects a person’s reading skills. People with dyslexia learning disabilities have trouble identifying speech sounds and relating them to the letters and words they see on a page. Since this is the first step in learning how to read, all other steps become much more challenging.

It’s important to note that this disorder has nothing to do with intelligence. In fact, children and adults with dyslexia have the requisite intelligence to be significantly better readers.

Regardless of age, dyslexia makes it difficult for sufferers to:

• Read fluently
• Spell words correctly
• Pronounce names or words
• Quickly complete tasks that involve reading
• Learn a foreign language

Dyslexia and technology - The challenges

Although technology has advanced everyday activities, not everyone finds it easy to use. Since many computer tasks require writing and reading, dyslexic people can struggle in the same way they do with a pen and paper.

For instance, many people with dyslexia fear writing emails since the end result is usually riddled with spelling errors and typos. The same goes for writing reports and similar business documents, which can significantly affect a person’s professional performance.

Furthermore, the visual clutter on most computers can overwhelm dyslexic users, resulting in difficulty retrieving the necessary files. Plus, a quick search on a computer requires using the “find” function which, again, calls for typing.

And finally, many users struggle with learning more complex computer functions since this process typically involves either written or on-screen instructions.

However, although computers may seem daunting at times, technology can work miracles for people with dyslexia. 

The tools you can download today

Since dyslexia can’t be cured or treated, people with this disorder develop strategies to successfully manage its impact on their everyday life. Luckily, as assistive technology advances, dyslexic people have more resources at their disposal.

Here’s a rundown of the best technology tools for people with dyslexia.

Text to speech apps

Text to speech apps are among the most useful assistive tools for dyslexia. As the name suggests, these apps convert almost any text format into a natural-sounding voice. Making the natural reader content audible allows people with a reading disorder to better understand the text. In addition, they can use these tools to proofread and spell check any text since mistakes are more evident when heard.

Quality text to speech software, such as Speechify, will also provide various features for adjusting the text. For example, dyslexic learners can change the font size, invert colors for easier readability, and highlight the read text. All of these modifications will make the content more accessible.

Dictation software

Dictation software programs or speech recognition software allow users to dictate a text instead of writing or typing. These programs accurately transcribe the voice input in real time.

Depending on the software’s capabilities, dyslexic students can use it for note-taking. On the other hand, casual users can dictate a reminder, a text, or a shopping list. These programs essentially make multi-tasking possible for people with dyslexia.

Some dictation programs, such as Dragon NaturallySpeaking, can also control computers, making them ideal for people with dyslexia who struggle with technology. With a compatible microphone and a headset, you don’t have to worry about finding your way around a computer again.

Word prediction apps

Word prediction apps are assistive technology tools that suggest words as the user types. These handy apps can immensely benefit people with writing issues.

Most iOS and Android mobile devices contain some form of word prediction, but more advanced tools are also available. These can be used as a writing tool to help people with dyslexia reduce keystrokes, improve spelling, and save typing time.

ClaroRead is one of the more popular options for word prediction. This simple program relies on huge prediction dictionaries to “guess” the intended word. Moreover, it features phonetic prediction, so typing “n” can result in a “knowledge” suggestion.

Audiobooks

Audiobooks can greatly benefit dyslexic people, regardless of their age. Using audiobooks, dyslexic students can go through their course material much faster. Moreover, audiobooks can introduce smaller children with this disorder into the beautiful world of books. And lastly, casual adults can enjoy reading without stressing their working memory and vision.

It should also be noted that you can listen to text with text to speech software apps. These apps usually have a version for each device. Speechify, for instance, can be used on:

• A Windows PC as a Google Chrome extension
• A Mac
• An iPhone or an iPad
• An Android smartphone and tablet

This flexibility allows dyslexic students and working professionals to accomplish their daily tasks with ease.

Optical character recognition

Optical character recognition (OCT) tools help people with disabilities overcome learning challenges. Simply put, these tools convert written material into digital text that can be easily manipulated. As such, it will also be much easier to understand for people with dyslexia.

These tools can come as a smartpen or a part of more advanced software like Speechify. Using this app, you can turn any image into spoken words, thus eliminating the need to decipher an illegible piece of paper.

Speechify - A dyslexia tool you can try on your computer

Speechify is a productivity-enabling technology that helps dyslexic people deal with the everyday struggles this disorder presents.

This tool is powered by OCR technology, allowing it to read the text in images as well as plain text. It can scan a web page, a Google doc, and an email and instantly convert them into spoken words.

By eliminating the obstacles printed words possess for dyslexic learners, Speechify helps them acknowledge and correct their errors and easily understand any material before them.

Best of all, you can try this program for free and experience its benefits yourself.

FAQ

What is the best assistive technology for dyslexia?

The best assistive technology for dyslexia combines several helpful tools into a single program. Apps like Speechify contain text to speech features and optical character recognition software. For a simpler web browser extension, consider Read&Write. This extension can make any Google docs and web page more accessible. 

Can dyslexic people use a computer?

With adequate assistive technology, dyslexic people will have no issues using a computer.

What are the benefits of using a computer for dyslexia?

A computer grants access to multiple tools, such as word processing and a screen reader, that can make life much easier for dyslexic people.

What is an example of a computer program for dyslexia?

Speechify is an excellent computer program for dyslexia. Thanks to its many features catered to people with disabilities, it allows much easier navigation for people with dyslexia.