Why

Why should you use text-to-speech (TTS) technology with your learners? Learners use various learning methodologies: Auditory, Visual, and Kinesthetic. ReadSpeaker TTS technology combines two methodologies (auditory and visual) to help learners retain information more effectively. Learners who use two senses, or bimodal learning, have been shown to help retain information.

Who

The learners who use bimodal learning are trying to engage with the curriculum. They may be language learners, have dyslexia or dysgraphia, experience fluency or phonological challenges, and more. These learners need help removing the barriers between them and the curriculum. TTS technology helps.

What

Encourage all learners to explore the TTS to find out how it works best for them. Without encouragement from you, they may not realize that: 

  1. the TTS technology is present
  2. that is beneficial to them
  3. that it is easy to use.

How

The “how” is the easy part.  Demonstrate how to use the Listen button in the classroom. 

Option 1

Option 2

Option 3

Brightspace Classic View 

Brightspace New View 1A

speaker is indicated

Lower toolbar of docReader shown in the New View of D2L

Brightspace New View 1B

Open DocReader is indicated on the right side of the image.

Learners will gain confidence to begin exploring the tool. 

Proceed to OCR Section if Licensed

Proceed to the Page Mask and Ruler Section if you do not have the docReader OCR