TextAloud and Speak It! are text-to-speech software programs that can be useful for students with disabilities. TextAloud converts text from Word, emails, web pages and PDFs into natural sounding speech that can be listened to or saved as audio files. Speak It! is a Mac text-to-speech app that can be used on iPad, iPhone and Mac and allows users to copy and paste text, save files, adjust speech settings. These programs provide independence for students with reading disabilities and can help with classroom work, homework, and developing technology skills needed for the future workforce.

1. Technology Project TextAloud & Speak it! Transition Diana B. Garcia Transition Specialist

2. Overview – TextAloud TextAloud is Text to Speech software that converts your text from MS Word Documents, Emails, Web Pages and PDF Files into natural-sounding speech. You can listen on your PC or create audio files for use on portable devices like iPods, PocketPCs and CD players. TextAloud even has automatic iTunes/iPod syncing.

3. How it is used? Very simple: 1. Simply Copy & Paste 2. When you copy the TextAloud box will come up and you can simply click on NEW and the window will come up with the text. 3. Ready to Speak 4. Voices, Volume, and many features can be adjusted.

4. How they both apply to Transition Text to Speech software can assist students with a disability gain independence. Student's with reading disability can feel independence by learning to use it as a resource Can assist student's in classes, homework, job settings, and daily things like reading newspapers or general information

5. Purpose in and out of the classroom IN the classroom: Use with speakers and projector for class lesson...(then students can read on their own with partners) Students find it interesting!!! It gets their attention Students can be given the option to use the software during class to accomplish their work on their own You give a demo, every time you use it in class, reinforce it, and students will remember how to use it.

6. Speak it! Speak it! Is a text to speech application for MAC can be used on Ipad, Iphone, any MAC OS X. Very simple to use just copy and paste. You can save the files, search, change speed, and do voice shaping.

7. Recommendation or Tips Files can be saved as mp3 files for the use on mobile devices. Double check computer regular input and output devices to make they work correctly. Teach students to adjust things like speed and volume

8. Technology can Enhance the learning Technology can enhance learning in many ways * Innovation gets students attention * Assist in students learning * Technology skills and knowledge are all necessary in the workforce

9. Sample: Video Please watch the short video clip.