Newcastle College - Innovatively using Read&Write GOLD!

April 19, 2010 - PRLog -- Lecturers within Newcastle Colleges’ Information Learning Technology Unit (ILT) are innovatively using Read&Write GOLD assistive software to convert lecture notes to MP3 files, which are downloaded by students to aid their studies.  

Ian Slater, Assistive Technology Co-ordinator at Newcastle College explains this further “All students have access to the College’s blackboard where they can download their own personal course information from lecturers.  Lecturers in the ILT Unit are using the text-to-speech function of Read&Write to convert their notes into audio files which can then be downloaded as MP3 files.  Students can listen to notes being read aloud on their computer or MP3 players.  We feel this is a very innovative use of the software”.

Newcastle College have had Read&Write GOLD software for a number of years, and first made the purchase when Read&Write version 7 was available, for dyslexic users at the College.  The software is now available to all students on the Colleges network.

Read&Write GOLD literacy support software is designed specifically to address the needs of students with literacy difficulties.  The software works discreetly on all mainstream Windows applications to assist students with their reading, writing and research skills. The text-to-speech functionality of the software improves comprehension levels and access to the curriculum for students and contains features such as spelling support, a talking dictionary, word prediction, study skills, a translator tool, a fact mapper and talking calculator.  The software encourages independent and inclusive learning for all students.  Read&Write also improves access to Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) and Digital Exams.

Ian continues “We frequently demonstrate Read&Write software to students in response to them disclosing on their enrolment form that they have dyslexia.  We have a range of assistive software to support students with dyslexia; however Read&Write GOLD is by far the most popular piece of software.  The variety of tools available within Read&Write GOLD makes it an ideal piece of software for supporting the wide spectrum of dyslexic students who attend Newcastle College”.

For further information on Read&Write, please contact Elaine on Tel: 028 9442 8105, email elaine@texthelp.com or visit our website www.texthelp.com

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About Texthelp Systems Ltd

Texthelp Systems Ltd is the worldwide leader of literacy software solutions provided through three core business divisions: Education, Speech Services and Publishing. Texthelp has been developing assistive technology software for the learning disabled community since 1996. The aim has always been to provide the most comprehensive cutting-edge technology available to provide inclusive education.

Based in Antrim, N. Ireland and with offices in the US, Texthelp is currently experiencing a period of sustained year on year growth. The company has a reseller network covering over 20 countries.

Texthelp has been a Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Award winning company for ten years and won numerous product, innovation and marketing awards.