Use Accessibility Tools and Software
Accessibility tools can help with reading text aloud, converting speech to text, and more. This guide covers key accessibility features across popular platforms, as well as useful library resources and tools for academic support.
🔊 Text-to-Speech Tools
Text-to-speech tools read on-screen text aloud, making it easier to consume information without needing to read directly. This can be helpful for users with visual impairments, dyslexia, or those who prefer auditory learning.
macOS
macOS offers Voice Over, a screen reader that speaks items on the screen and provides descriptions of what is happening.
To enable text-to-speech, see Apple’s guide on having your Mac speak text that’s on the screen.
iPad
iPads support Voice Over and Speak Screen to read text aloud. To enable this, see Apple’s iPad accessibility guide.
Windows
Narrator is Windows’ built-in screen reader, which provides text-to-speech for reading on-screen items. To enable Narrator, see Microsoft's Narrator support page
Chromebook
Chromebooks offer Select-to-Speak for reading selected text aloud. To enable this, see Google’s Chromebook accessibility page.
🗣️ Speech-to-Text Tools
Speech-to-text tools allow users to dictate text rather than typing, which can be beneficial for users with physical disabilities or those who find typing challenging.
macOS
macOS provides Dictation, a feature that converts spoken words into text. To use this feature, see Apple’s dictation support page.
iPad
On the iPad, Dictation allows users to speak text instead of typing. To use this feature, see Apple’s guide on dictating text on iPad.
Windows
Windows includes Voice Typing, allowing users to convert speech into text. To use this feature, see Microsoft's voice typing support page.
Chromebook
Chromebooks have a Dictation tool for converting speech to text. To use this feature, see Google’s Chromebook support page.
🛠️ Read & Write Extension (Chrome)
The Read & Write extension for Google Chrome offers comprehensive accessibility features such as text-to-speech, word prediction, and tools for Google Docs and web content. To install this extension:
- Visit the Read & Write extension page
- Install the extension
When you are in a Google Doc or on a compatible website, you'll be able to use the Read & Write extension's text-to-speech feature to read aloud page content. This tool is useful for students and faculty who need additional reading and writing support while using Chrome.
📚 Library Resources
Riverdale’s library resources include tools for research, note-taking, and citation management that can assist in academic work:
- Library Resources – Access various databases and materials.
- Padlet Resources – Use Padlet for organizing and sharing ideas visually.
- Access Canva – Create presentations, posters, and other visual content.
- Access NoodleTools– An excellent resource for managing citations and creating notecards for research projects.
💡 Additional Support
For further assistance with accessibility tools or library resources, reach out to the IT department or the library staff. They can provide personalized guidance on using these tools effectively for your educational needs.