Assistive Software

Read & Write GOLD is designed to help students who require extra assistance when reading or composing text and it is available on every computer in the College. The software has many features including:

  • Text to speech – most student have personal headphones to use this;

  • Fact Folders to develop research techniques;

  • Spelling and homophone checks and much, much more……

When opened, the Read & Write GOLD toolbar can be docked to the left, right or top of the screen to suit personal preference and remains visible for all applications.  Each function of the toolbar has a black, drop-down arrow where you can teach yourself by viewing ‘Video Tours’.

Read & Write GOLD is available SITEWIDE on ALL PCs but may not be fully installed.  If it is not installed, the icon on the desktop will be grey – once installed it will be in colour. To do so, follow these simple steps:

  • Applications and Resources

  • CCOAST

  • Accessibility Applications

  • Installation

  • Install Read & Write 8_1

Tip: installation only takes about 5 minutes but can be time consuming doing it yourself.  Once all of your students are at a PC take them through these steps and the whole room will be done for you….and others!

Here are some useful features:

Text to Speech

·         This is the main text to speech function;

·         Speech options can select voice, speed, volume etc;

·         You can change the background highlighting;

·         You can read by word, sentence or paragraph.

Speech Maker

·         This is useful if you prefer to listen to your work;

·         It can be beneficial for revision;

·         Notes are highlighted and converted to either WAV or MP3 files;

·         Files can be stored on your PC, memory stick, CD or MP3 player;

·         This can be achieved with about 3 clicks of the mouse and takes no longer than 2-3 minutes to complete.

Fact Folder

·         This is a useful tool to help organise your research; 

·         Information can be copied from the internet and stored in folders;

·         You can make your own comments about the research;

·         The folder can be exported to MSWord;

·         The ‘export’ will list all of your research and references your work.

Equipment needed:

·         Headphones;

·         A splitter if the student is receiving 1:1 support

 

 Inspiration

It can sometimes be difficult to plan and develop your ideas.  Inspiration is an exellent piece of software that allows you to do just this in a clear and colourful mindmap. 

If you are interested in improving the planning, structure and content of your assignments, please speak to staff in C12 for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last modified: Thursday, 7 August 2014, 11:51 AM