Make effective use of technologies to access content, support literacy, and present learning
Accessibility and literacy support tools, such as text-to-speech, can provide an on-ramp to successful participation in learning. Ensure all students know how to use them effectively.
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Provide access to technologies
Provide access to technologies
Felix uses the iPad to listen to instructions, text, and emails. He also uses iWordQ to help him with his writing and reading.
Make accessibility tools available to all
Make accessibility tools available to all
- Text-to-speech (TTS) software converts text from a website or digital document into speech by reading written information aloud. It is often highlighted with word tracking.
– TTS on Mac operating systems
– Natural Reader
– Read and Write for Google Chrome
- Word prediction software predicts a required word as a student writes, producing a list of words. Explore LetMeType.
- Explore Mercury Reader or use the Reader function on Mac operating systems to access clutter-free web pages.
- Spell and contextual grammar checkers. Explore Ginger for Chrome.
- Closed Captions (subtitles). Turn them on when sharing videos with students.
Audio books
Audio books
Listening to an audio book while following along with the text helps bridge the gap between decoding words and assigning meaning. Receiving information both visually and audibly reinforces word recognition, improves fluency, builds vocabulary, and supports the development of higher-level comprehension skills.
![11817 [IMG-6291.jpg]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/example-images/IMG-6291__ScaleMaxWidthWzEwODZd.jpg)
Source: Ministry of Education | Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga
Using apps
Using apps
Provide a useful selection of apps to support access and learning. Ensure you know how to use them.
![11834 [Dyslexia-apps.png]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/example-images/Dyslexia-apps__ScaleMaxWidthWzEwODZd.png)
Ministry of Education ebooks
Ministry of Education ebooks
![11856 [DYSL-5-5-Ministry-of-Education-ebooks.png]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/example-images/DYSL-5-5-Ministry-of-Education-ebooks__ScaleMaxWidthWzEwODZd.png)
Source: Ministry of Education | Te Tāhuhu o Te Mātauranga
Useful resources
Useful resources
Technology tools for learning
Strategies and approaches for using technologies to provide inclusive and personalised learning pathways.
Overview of instructional and assistive technology: Critical tools for students who struggle
Provides an explanation of instructional technology and assistive technology and includes practical tips for evaluating and using these technologies.
Publisher: International Dyslexia Association
Free online assistive technology tools to help with reading, writing and math
Read time: 10 min
Digital tools to assist children with learning and attention issues.
Publisher: Understood
Next steps
More suggestions for implementing the strategy “Helpful classroom strategies in years 1-8”:
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Current page Make effective use of technologies
Return to the guide “Dyslexia and learning”
How to use this site
Guide to Index of the guide: Dyslexia and learning
Understand:
- Understanding dyslexia
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Understanding dyslexia and literacy acquisitionShow suggestions for Understanding dyslexia and literacy acquisition
Strategies for action:
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Develop a schoolwide approachShow suggestions for Develop a schoolwide approach
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Identify student needs and how to provide supportShow suggestions for Identify student needs and how to provide support
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Support early literacy development through a structured literacy approachShow suggestions for Support early literacy development through a structured literacy approach
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Helpful classroom strategies in years 1–8Show suggestions for Helpful classroom strategies in years 1–8
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Helpful classroom strategies in years 9–13Show suggestions for Helpful classroom strategies in years 9–13
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Supporting literacy and numeracy in NCEAShow suggestions for Supporting literacy and numeracy in NCEA
