Reading tools are often referred to as Text to Speech tools. These applications are generally used so that students with reading disabilities can access their books on the computer. Using Optical Recognition (OCR) software the books are generally scanned using a scanner and are saved in a format that the computer can read using synthesized speech. In addition, some books are available as a talking or audio book format that can be access via a subscription to the Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic.
The nation's educational library for those with print disabilities. In September 2002, a collection of over 6,000 RFB&D's® AudioPlus™ digitally recorded textbooks on CD was released. Eventually, members will have access to digitally recorded versions of the more than 93,000 titles in our CV Starr Learning Through Listening™ Library.
RFB&D® now has a volunteer force of more than 5,200 volunteers who added 4,011 titles to our library in the year 2002. RFB&D® has also undertaken an innovative Educational Outreach initiative —- bringing our services directly into the schools to train teachers and students how to most effectively use our recorded textbooks.
CAST eReader
- Speaks digitized text, HTML, and DAISY 2.02 formatted digital talking books.
- Provides reading support for surfing the Web
- Highlights text by word, sentence, or paragraph
- Is available for Windows® and Macintosh® platforms
- helps improve reading fluency, automaticity, reading speed and comprehension
- helps students learn and study independently
- by providing visual and auditory feedback, the software helps students with reading, learn critical study skills and successfully complete writing projects
- easy to use
- uses multiple toolbars
- easy to use
- low cost test to speech tool
