Reading Support Software are tools that help individuals with learning difficulties improve their reading and comprehension. There are currently four commonly used software programs that provide reading support. Their features vary from straight forward document readers to complex, multi functional / multi sensory tutors.
“I wish Kurzweil had been available years ago. It would have helped me get better grades.”
James
Main Features
Kurzweil 3000 is able to read aloud virtually any electronic file on a computer or on the Internet, using synthetic speech. The professional version has the ability to scan and read any typewritten document. To use this function the user clicks the mouse to position the cursor at the point from which he or she wishes reading to commence. Words are highlighted as they are read. This makes tracking easier. Unfamiliar words can be broken down into syllables using the syllabification tool and defined using a built-in electronic dictionary.
Other key features of Kurzweil include the ‘Study Skills’ toolbar. Text highlight and extraction tools are unique to this program. The user has extensive control over menus, colours, fonts, and voices. The Kurzweil Professional version includes optical character recognition (OCR) for use with the scanner that allows for the conversion of electronic files, web pages, etc., into Kurzweil 3000 image files. Kurzweil 3000 can read in French, German, Spanish, and Italian and is paired with dictionaries that allow the user to edit in those languages.