Read&Write
The Basics
Read&Write is essentially a speech-to-text, and text-to-speech program that exsists as an extention for Google's Chrome web browser. That means that it can be used on any webpage within the browser. Users can have it read highlighted text (including words, passages, or whole documents) in English or a host of other languages (this means it can also translate text into various languages). It can also define highlighted words using text or pictures, and turn speech into text which can then be saved into Google Docs. It also has a feature than summarized webpages.
Educational Applications
Read&Write's definition feature has many possibilities for students, such as defining words that students come across while researching, allowing for a deeper understanding of the research topic. It's translation feature can also help with language lessons, while that various note taking features (especially speech-to-text notes) creates an easy way of expanding student resource bases.
UDL Applications
The speech-to-text features are a huge help for students who struggle with reading, allowing them to perform research on largely text-based webpages efficiently. They can even follow along with the speech to help improve their reading. On the other hand, the speech-to-text options are perfect for students who struggle with writing. Whether it's an intellectual or physical problems that hinders writing, the program can turn teacher or student created content dictated orally into textual notes for further use.
User Age
As per the programs terms of use available here, users under 13 years of age need a parent or guardian to approve of and agree to use the program for the user.
Get Read&Write for Google Chrome here, or visit its website, https://rwchrome.texthelp.com/drive/Support/Home
