[Athen] Google Docs tools for student with Dyslexia

[shelleyhaven techpotential.net via athen-list]

Hi, Karen!

Since dyslexia is a language-based learning disability comprising a range of functional limitations, students may need tools beyond just text-to-speech.  In addition to reading difficulties like decoding and fluency, it can impact reading comprehension, spelling, other aspects of writing (like word retrieval and editing), taking notes, math, and more.  Each of these functional limitations might call for different tool features.

Since you’re asking about tools a dyslexic student might use with Google Docs, I suggest you start with Chrome & Edge extensions that help with reading and writing.  Take a look at the AT Toolbox page on my website (http://www.techpotential.net/attoolbox) and consider the Chrome-based tools under the sections:

  *   Simple text-to-speech (TTS)
  *   Read, Write, and Study Software Suites
  *   Assorted Reading Supports
  *   Assorted Writing Supports
  *   Math & Science Notation

Please note that two of the most capable suites of literacy tools for students with dyslexia – Texthelp’s Read&Write, and Don Johnston’s Snap&Read and Co:Writer – are undergoing a huge transition this summer as the two companies near completion of their two-year-long effort to merge their products and capabilities:
https://academy.texthelp.com/lp/read-write-changes/
https://learningtools.donjohnston.com/2024/04/cowriter-and-or-snapread-customer-faq/

The Texthelp Academy (https://academy.texthelp.com) is the best place to quickly explore everything these tools can do (look for the Feature Tour under each product).

As for providing access to Microsoft 365 alongside Google Docs, et al, I have had a few students who needed access to both (obviously, there needs to be a justification, usually based on particular necessary features).  If the student is using Chrome or Edge as their main browser in order to leverage those Chrome extensions, they can simply sign into a Microsoft account that gives them access to Word, OneNote, and a few other MS tools for free:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/free-productivity-apps

Hope this helps!

- Shelley

_____________________________
Shelley Haven  ATP, RET
Assistive Technology Consultant
www.TechPotential.net<http://www.TechPotential.net>



On TuesdayMay 14, at 3:37 AM, Karen McCall via athen-list <athen-list at u.washington.edu<mailto:athen-list at u.washington.edu>> wrote:

Morning!
This is an area I’m not as well versed as I should be. I focus on Microsoft applications. I only know of Text-to-Speech tools available for Google Docs. Are there any other tools that a student with Dyslexia can use in Google Docs?
Microsoft has the immersive reader tools and now they’ve introduced Reading Coach: https://insider.microsoft365.com/en-us/blog/introducing-reading-coach-your-ai-powered-reading-fluency-coach
Also, are there academic institutions that use Google Docs that can provide access to Microsoft 365 as part of an IEP or accommodation?
Thanks for your help!
Cheers, Karen
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