DAY 1 – TEXT TO SPEECH

How can we use the Text to Speech Function and how does it benefit the child?

Do you find that some learners understand better when text is read to them?

Then, text-to-speech is a function that will remove a huge amount of stress from their everyday reading!

While text-to-speech has benefits for all users, some of the particular groups that see a better user experience are:

1. Users with learning disabilities – Some users have difficulty reading large amounts of text due to disorders where reading is very difficult and other learning disabilities. The availability of text-to-speech function is an easier option for them to manage content that is largely text-based.
2. Users who have literacy difficulties – Some dyslexic users get frustrated trying to browse the internet because so much of it is in text form. By offering them an option to hear the text instead of reading it, they can get valuable information in a way that is more comfortable for them.

How can we set-up the Text to Speech Function on the iPad?

STEP 1: Go to Settings > General > Accessibility > Speech and turn on Speak Selection and Speak Screen by sliding the toggle switch to the right.

STEP 2: Next, adjust the speed of the speech by sliding the speaking rate slider to the right (or the left) until the voice reads at an acceptable pace for your needs.

STEP 3: Turn on Highlight Content. This option highlights words on the screen as they are read aloud by the iPad. It is a great feature that is a real boon for students and is proven to help improve reading skills.

To read this article in PDF: Click here

By

Soofrina Mubarak, Senior Educational Therapist, EdTech Coordinator, English Language and Literacy Division
Kalphna C, Educational Therapist
Nur Syahirah Jasni, Educational Therapist

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