This document provides a tutor guide for using technology to support adult literacy learning. It discusses strategies for introducing ICT, including available hardware such as computers, keyboards and printers in the learning centers. It also outlines the software available, such as literacy learning programs, practice tests and multimedia resources. Checklists are provided to help tutors integrate appropriate technologies into their lessons while considering the needs of both students and tutors.

1. South Tipperary VEC Adult Learning Scheme 2nd Edn.
2009
Using Technology to support
Adult Literacy
Tutor Guide.
This guide was written to support tutors using technology in their work
with students.
Page  1

2. Contents
Part 1 Part 2
Recognising ICT in everyday life. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning.
Communication View Hardware. View
Financial Software.
Personal The Tutor.
Community The Student.
Other issues.
Tutor checklist.
Part 3 Part 4
ICT as a tool in literacy learning ICT as a literacy resource.
Supporting the students reading
View Worksheets. View
development.
Assistive technology.
Supporting student writing development.
Online learning.
Supporting student phonic development.
Internet and email.
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Practice spelling.
Create worksheets.
Using learning software and websites.
Page  2

3. Part 1
Recognising ICT in everyday life.
Financial
Communication
Personal
Entertainment
Community
Page  3 Contents

4. Page  4

5. Financial
Cash Machines
Challenges:
Obtaining card- Form filling.
Keying in numbers, reading instructions,
choosing options,
read receipt, public transaction.
Laser Card
Challenges:
Obtaining card- Form filling
Keying in numbers, choosing options,
read receipt, public transaction.
Page  5 Contents

6. Automated Checkouts in supermarkets:
Challenges:
Scanning, reading instructions, choosing options,
counting money, read receipt, public transaction.
Page  6 Contents

7. Online Banking
Challenges:
Sign up –Form filling, sign –up- Internet, computer skills.
Page  7 Contents

8. Communication
Mobile Phone
Challenges:
Reading- Menus, messages and top up receipts.
Writing- Texting
Topping up- Using money, entering code, reading receipt.
Bill phone- signing up- form filling.
Internet
Challenges:
Sign up- form filling.
Computer skills; navigation, reading web pages.
Writing; email,
Google searches,
online forms.
Intercom
Challenges:
Read names, Key in number
Page  8 Contents

9. Personal
Security
Challenges:
PIN Number, sequence, password.
Services
Setting – Heat- Washing machine.
Challenges:
Time, Settings, Display.
Page  9 Contents

10. Entertainment
Television
Challenges:
Read Menus,
Adjust .
Page  10 Contents

11. Music
Challenges:
Knowledge of devices: iPod,mp3 player, phone, laptop, Computer.
Reading; Menus, web pages.
Writing: search engines.
Downloading from web to device.
Payment – online form filling, acquiring credit card- more form filling.
Photography
Challenges:
Read menus
Read dialogue boxes
Open files
Save files
Organize files
Print Images
Page  11 Contents

12. Community
Link
Deliveries
Harnessing Technology to
Challenges: Serve Adult Literacy
Sign name, Public transaction. http://alri.org/harness.html
Travel
Challenges:
Read ,choose from menu.
Online booking.
Page  12 Contents

13. The capacity for an integrated and
interactive electronic learning medium
of hypertext, still and moving images, and
sound to be delivered at high speed to
home, work, or learning center anytime,
almost anywhere, in real and
asynchronous time, opens a new era of
learning and teaching possibilities for
adult literacy education.
Link
Using Electronic Technology
in Adult Literacy Education
Volume 1: Chapter Eight
David J. Rosen David J. Rosen
Using Electronic Technology in Adult Literacy Education
http://www.ncsall.net/?id=771&pi
d=519
Page  13 Contents

14. Changing Technologies
Page  14 Contents

15. Part 2
Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning.
Hardware.
Software.
The Tutor.
The Student.
Other issues.
Tutor checklist.
Page  15 Contents

16. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Not all teaching and learning in Adult Literacy can be supported by IT. In this
section we look at issues to consider before tutors introduce IT into their
activities.
Hardware South Tipperary VEC Adult Learning Scheme has computer rooms in
each of its five permanent centres. All of these computers are
equipped with headphones and/or speakers. All computers are
connected to the internet and to a printer. The Clonmel centre has
two large key keyboards for use by visually impaired or special
needs students.
If you intend to use any of the above equipment please check
beforehand that all hardware is working correctly and where
specialist hardware is required please inform the ALO or your
Resource worker.
Page  16 Contents

17. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
South Tipperary VEC Adult Learning Scheme computers all run
on Windows XP and all have the Microsoft Office Suite of
applications. All centres have copies of:
Driver Theory Test CD
Literacy tools CD
Really useful Guide CD
Technology at work CD
Ultimate Phonics CD
Text to speech software Text Aloud has also been installed on all
of our computers.
Our web site www.southtippals.com also acts as a portal to
online learning software and resources.
Page  17 Contents

18. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
Literacy tools CD
The Literacy Tools CD contains printable and computer based
games and learning activities. A copy of the disc is available in all
centres.
There is also a Literacy tools website at:
http://www.literacytools.ie/home.cfm
.
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19. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
Literacy Tools
Page  19 Contents

20. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
The Really Useful Guide to Words and Numbers is a Distance
Learning project co-ordinated by the National Adult Literacy
Agency (NALA). The project is funded by the Broadcasting
Commission of Ireland and the Department of Education and
Science.
A CD containing instruction on a variety of topics is available in
all of our centres.
Page  20 Contents

21. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
Technology at work CD
This CD contains interactive exercises to learn:
Mobile Phone
Fax/copier
Phone
Computer
Getting paid
ATMs
CD is available at all of our centres.
Page  21 Contents

22. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
Technology at work CD
Page  22 Contents

23. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
Driver Theory Test
Students preparing for the Driver Theory Test use the practice
CD which is available at all of our centres.
Further information on the test can be
Found at:
http://theorytest.ie/
Page  23 Contents

24. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
Software
Ultimate Phonics
Reading program is also available at
Our centres, it is a very popular and useful
Program for building phonic skills
and reading ability.
More info on Ultimate Phonics on page 46.
Software Text Aloud
Text Aloud is a Text –to- Speech Software
which uses a speech engine to
read text on a document or Web page.
More info on Text Aloud on page 60.
Page  24 Contents

25. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Before using technology with a student the tutor will have to be familiar with
Tutor the hardware and software to be used.
Where using a device such as a mobile phone where there can be a number of
models it would be beneficial to the tutor to familiarise themselves with that
model before the lesson. Similarly, if a tutor is to use a particular software or
specialist device they should take time to test it themselves before introducing
into the lesson.
South Tipperary VEC Adult Learning Scheme provide ongoing IT training and
we will organise individual training on particular areas on request.
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26. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The
It is important to remember that no two students are the same and
Student
also that ‘beginner learners are not beginner thinkers’. Therefore it is
important that the tutor has a good understanding of their students;
Literacy level Computer ability
Learning style Hobbies/Interests
Expectation/Fears Physical needs
Page  26 Contents

27. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Student Literacy Level
Literacy level
A students literacy level will have to be taken into account when introducing
ICT into your instruction. This will determine the type of activity you
undertake with this student. For example, for students with very low literacy
you may want to introduce typing their name or short words, whereas with
students with a higher literacy level you may be undertaking personal or
formal letters.
However, it has been our experience that some students with very low literacy
can have good computer skills and have shown the ability to understand and
use software such as word and e-mail without being able to carry out the
writing parts of these activities.
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28. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Student Learning Style
Your students learning style should also be considered. Visual learners
like charts and diagrams, illustrated text and video, therefore such students
will benefit from activities which include these. A good example of this for
learning basic computers is by using screencasts. Screencasts are recordings of
a computer screen while a task is being performed (often accompanied by
audio). Students watch how an activity (e.g. saving a document) is performed
and can stop, pause or replay the recording.
Some of the more advanced screencasts are interactive and require the student
to click on options to proceed.
See: Learning Line http://www.rmpbs.org/resources/files/education/learningline/flashhelp/Help01_02.htm
See: Alison: The Free Global Learning Experience http://alison.com
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29. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Student Learning Style
Students with an Auditory learning style
learn by listening. They learn best through
discussion and hearing what others have to
say. Written material or text on a computer screen
may have little meaning until it is heard. Such
students will benefit from the use of text reading
software such as Text Aloud which will read
Word documents, emails and web pages.
Click to Listen
Page  29 Contents

30. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Student Learning Style
Students who have a Tactile/Kinesthetic learning style
learn best through touch and feel and by actively exploring
the world around them. Using computer activities with tactile
learners may be best supported by using drag and drop
exercises and by using online learning games.
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31. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Student Learning Style
Reflective and observational learners:
Prefer to, reflect, observe, view and watch learning; they
make careful judgments and view things from a number of
different perspectives
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32. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Student Expectations/Fears
When you introduce computers to your students, start with a general
dialogue about the student‘s attitude to technology. It may be helpful to
discuss technology which they are already using such as; an ATM, DVD
player etc and explain the benefits of using a computer to support learning.
Encourage the student to express fears and reassure student that
lessons will be at their own pace and centered on their own
needs.
The Student Computer Ability
Any discussion about introducing computers should include an investigation
into the student‘s current level of computer literacy. This will give the tutor an
indication of what activities will be appropriate to engage in with the student.
For learning mouse skills and basic computer activities the BBC Computer
Tutor is a good starting point.
Link
Page  32 Contents

33. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
The Student Hobbies/Interests
Creating activities around the interests of the student will benefit the learning process as the
student will engage more with subjects which they have an interest in. It is important that the
tutor understands the student’s interests and where appropriate use these in lessons.
A good example of this would be an electronic field trip, where the student uses Google to find
information on a particular topic of interest to them. E.g. Classic cars and types a short report with
pictures in a Word document.
The Student Physical Needs
It is also important to understand and facilitate the students physical needs. Some
students with poor motor skills may need to use a bigger keyboard or mouse. Visually
impaired students will require larger fonts and specialized browsers.
A good web browsing application for visually impaired students is webbIE, this
browser allows magnification.
Page  33 Contents

34. Strategies for introducing ICT in literacy learning
WebbIE includes simple navigation and a
The Student Physical Needs magnify button
Page  34 Contents

35. Other issues to consider when introducing IT into learning
Material and instructional methods Student’s progress is enhanced
must be appropriate to the student‘s through the use of authentic
age, ability and interest. material.
Example: Many of the spelling websites on Examples:
the net are focused on the early childhood Formal letters: school, doctor, social
learner and therefore use graphics and welfare, tax office, employer.
pictures which are for children; adult learners Official documents: tax forms,
may be uncomfortable using these sites. insurance, rent, bank.
Work: contracts, rotas, wage slips, signs.
Citizenship: voter registration, rights
Help student engage with material issues.
Ensure that the activity is clearly relevant to Community: newspapers, community
the learning objective and topic in hand. group/club meeting minutes.
Explain the purpose of the activity. Environmental: signs, posters, street
Ensure variety. names.
Use graphics where appropriate. Language experience: text is produced
Do not have too much text on a page. by the student themselves.
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36. Other issues to consider when introducing IT into learning
Design considerations
The following guidelines are from NALAs Plain English Guide.
Headings
Headings should be a feature of every piece of text or worksheet and should guide the reader as to the
content of the material. Keep the format consistent, so that readers can distinguish between headings
and sub-headings, and use them as guides to reading and understanding.
Text
•Do not use block text i.e. DON‘T USE ALL CAPITAL LETTERS, THIS MAKES IT HARDER FOR PEOPLE TO
READ.
•For emphasis use bold for emphasis, not italics.
•It is best to left align text instead of centering. Do not fully justify text as this makes the space between
the words uneven and more difficult to read.
•Try not to use unusual font styles which look more attractive but which make the text harder to read.
Page  36 Contents

37. Other issues to consider when introducing IT into learning
Reading behaviors
Lower-literacy users exhibit very different reading behaviors than higher-literacy
users: they plow text rather than scan it, and they miss page elements due to a
narrower field of view.
Example: Some students can't quickly glance at a list of navigation options to
select the one they want. They must read each word in each option carefully. Their
only other choice is to completely skip over large amounts of information, which
they often do when things become too complicated.
Lower-literacy users tend to ‗satisfice‘ -- accept something as "good enough" --
based on very little information because digging deeper requires too much
reading, which is both challenging and time consuming. As soon as text becomes
too dense, lower-literacy users start skipping, usually looking for the next link. In
doing so, they often overlook important information.
In addition, having to scroll breaks lower-literacy users' visual concentration
because they can't use scanning to find the place they left off.
From Jacob Nielsen’s Alertbox, March 2005 Low Literacy.
Link:
http://www.useit.com/alertbox/20050314.html
Page  37 Contents

38. Other issues to consider when introducing IT into learning
Layout
Do Dont
 Consistent Formatting  Use BLOCK TEXT
 Use Bold for emphasis.  Use italics for emphasis
 Left Align text  Fully Justify text
 Clear Font Styles  Unusual Font Styles.
 Double line spacing  Single Line spacing
 Clear pages  Cluttered pages
Reference
Publications
NALA Plain English Guidelines - 13 Oct 2008 nala_plain_english_guidelines.pdf
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39. Other issues to consider when introducing IT into learning
Resources to Better Understand Integrating Technology
See: http://wiki.literacytent.org/index.php/AleTechnologyIntegration
See: http://tinyurl.com/9pq4d
A terrific resource on four different models of technology integration in the classroom is
Lynda Ginsburg's "Integrating Technology into Adult Learning" http://www-
tcall.tamu.edu/archives/hopey/04.pdf
To see some examples of best practices in technology integration in the classroom, visit
NCRTEC and see the examples of practice in Captured Wisdom
http://www.ncrtec.org/pd/cw/adultlit.htm
For more video examples of integrating technology in the adult education (including English
language learning) classroom, see the OTAN Video Gallery at
http://www.otan.us/Itap/index.cfm?fuseaction=videogallery
Page  39 Contents

40. Other issues to consider when introducing IT into learning
Available Tested Appropriate
Tutor Hardware
Checklist Software
Indicate Action
Computer
Ability
Interests
Learning Style
Physical needs Download
Activity Here
Literacy
Outcomes
Technology
Outcomes
Page  40 Contents

41. Part 3
ICT as a tool in literacy learning
One of the strongest trends in contemporary research and scholarship in English is the reframing of the
subject as literacy. Underpinning this changed emphasis is a perspective which conceptualises literacy as
being about far more than reading, writing and talking. Literacy is understood as social practice; a
socially, culturally, and historically situated tool used for particular purposes in particular contexts.
Professor Debra Myhill ,University of Exeter Dr Ros Fisher University of Exeter 2005
Ways in which computers can be used to support literacy:
•Support students reading development.
•Support students writing development.
•Supporting the students phonic development.
•Through the use of the internet and email.
•To practice spelling.
•To create worksheets.
•Using learning software and websites.
Page  41 Contents

42. Supporting students reading development
eBooks
An e-book (for electronic book: also ebook) is the digital media equivalent of a conventional printed book. Such
documents are usually read on personal computers, or on dedicated hardware devices known as e-book readers or e-
book devices.
The advantage of these books over conventional ones are the enhancements they allow; definition of words, links to
related material and the reader can search the text using search words. Disadvantages are that they are only accessible
through PCs or handheld devices, also the handheld devices do not have Text to Speech (TTS) capability. This will be
added at a future date and when this is done handheld readers will become powerful tools for reading development.
Link Link
Authors Guild Challenge
To Kindle TTS.
Amazon Kindle
Here
Here
Page  42 Contents

43. Supporting students reading development
Online books
There are a host of online book sites where students have access to texts.
These books can be read online or downloaded and saved.
For example, Project Gutenberg, is a volunteer effort to digitize, archive and distribute cultural works.
Founded in 1971 by Michael S. Hart, it is the oldest digital library. Most of the items in its collection are
the full texts of public domain books. The project tries to make these as free as possible, in long-lasting,
open formats that can be used on almost any computer. As of December 2007, Project Gutenberg has
over 24,000 items in its collection.
These texts combined with Text Aloud or Word Talk Software can be useful tool for reading
development.
Link Link
LibriVox
Project Gutenberg Audio recordings of public
domain books published
Here on the net
Here
Page  43 Contents

44. Supporting students reading development
Link Link
Awesome stories Website Tar Heel Website
A collection of audio books Collection of stories
with audio:
Here Here
Link Link
Free Classic Audio Books
The California Distance
Digital Narration for the 21st
Learning Project
Century excellent site for
beginner and Here
Here
developing readers.
Page  44 Contents

45. Supporting Students Writing Development
Educational technologies that support the development of students' writing skills include:
Word processing
Word processing applications such as Word allow students to write and edit their work more easily.
Changes can be made to the text quickly and there is a spell checker option to help with spelling.
Student will need mouse skills and keyboard skills and also have some knowledge of saving and
opening files. Add-Ins such as text to speech also allows the student to hear the text read back to them.
Co-writer
Co: Writer is a powerful word-prediction program created for struggling writers to help expand their
vocabulary and improve written expression.
Includes :
Co:Writer—intelligent word prediction
Write:OutLoud—talking word processor For Demo click Here
Read:OutLoud—Text reader
Website:
http://www.donjohnston.com/products/cowriter/product_tour.html
Page  45 Contents

46. Supporting Students Writing Development
White Smoke
White Smoke is a programme that aims to help its users produce better-written
documents. It does this by analyzing the spelling, punctuation and grammar in any
document, and then suggesting corrections and possible improvements.
WhiteSmoke will work in almost any text-based application, including word
processors, email programs, web-based forms, and so on.
Digital Storytelling
Digital Storytelling is the practice of using computer-based tools to tell
stories. As with traditional storytelling, most digital stories focus on a specific
topic and contain a particular point of view. Digital stories usually contain
some mixture of computer-based images, text, recorded audio narration,
video clips and/or music. The topics that are used in Digital Storytelling
range from personal tales to the recounting of historical events, from
exploring life in one's own community.
Page  46 Contents

47. Supporting Students Writing Development
Digital Storytelling
Here a
teacher talks
about using
Digital
Storytelling
with school
children.
Digital
storytelling
can also be
used
successfully
With adult
learners
Page  47 Contents

48. Supporting the students phonic development
Programmed Reading Instruction.
Popular
Ultimate Phonics
Various types of software programs,
computer-assisted instruction, and
integrated learning systems offer
programmed reading instruction for
students. This skills-based instruction
ranges from letter recognition to
phonics instruction to vocabulary
building.
A copy of this CD can be found at all
of our centres.
Page  48 Contents

49. Supporting the students phonic development
Vocabulary
Link Link
Wordly Wise 3000® series Word Ahead
provides direct vocabulary
Word ahead is a very good
instruction and enhanced
vocabulary website with
reading comprehension.
videos explaining words, it
also has a study section.
Here Here
Page  49 Contents

50. Supporting the students phonic development
Vocabulary
Click to hear word
Choose Subject
Link:
New Word
http://www.learn-english.co.il/
Page  50 Contents

51. Through the use of the internet and email.
This includes sending and receiving e-mail, using instant messaging and
discussion forums. Using these requires a good degree of computer
proficiency from the student but in many cases the student may wish to
communicate with a relative or friend or book a holiday online and is
motivated by this desire. Thus the students writing development is
encouraged. Where this is the case, tutor and student are encouraged to
spend a good amount of time working on the technical aspects such as the
layout of the page and the various buttons, signing in and out and opening
and replying to mails. It is advised that student and tutor together e-mail
short messages back and forth in the class to become familiar with the IT
skills required. Once the student is comfortable with the technical aspects
then tutor and student can work on the spelling and writing in the e-mail.
Page  51 Contents

52. Through the use of the internet and email.
To practice spelling
There are a number of good online spelling websites which allows the student
to do spelling tests or look, say, cover and write activities. The sites which we
have found to be most useful and popular are;
Spelling City, BBC Skillswise Look, Say, Cover, Write page, these are illustrated
later in this guide.
To create worksheets
Worksheets can aid student development by providing opportunities to test
comprehension, practice reading or spelling and writing skills. Examples of
worksheets include; word searches, cloze exercises, sequencing exercises and
form filling.
Examples are shown in the following section of this this guide.
Page  52 Contents

53. Part 4
ICT as a literacy resource.
Worksheets.
Assistive technology.
Online learning.
Online Information & resources for
tutors.
Page  53 Contents

54. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
Word is a very useful program for creating
worksheets. Using Word the tutor can
create:
•Cloze exercises.
•Punctuation exercises.
•Reading comprehension worksheets
•Word searches.
•Sequencing exercises.
•Matching exercises
•Choice exercises.
Page  54 Contents

55. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
•Cloze exercises.
Example:
Words:
SH__P
S__OP
SH__RE
Tutor creates list of words on Word then prints them out. Student fills in blanks when told the word by tutor.
Sentences:
Example:
We went to the _ _ _ _ to get some milk.
Page  55 Contents

56. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
•Reading Comprehension.
Example:
Juan loves to play games. His favorite game is chess because it requires a great deal
of thought. Juan also likes to play less demanding board games that are based mostly
on luck. He prefers Monopoly because it requires luck and skill. If he‘s alone, Juan likes
to play action video games as long as they aren‘t too violent.
What is the main idea of this paragraph?
a. Juan dislikes violence.
b. Juan likes to think.
c. Juan enjoys Monopoly.
d. Juan enjoys playing games.
Page  56 Contents

57. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
•Word Searches
Example:
Clothes: COAT, HAT, SHOE, GLOVE, PANTS, TIE
To create a word search using word.
To create table: Choose Insert Table
Choose number of columns and rows
Then click OK
Page  57
Contents

58. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
•Word Searches
You will have to resize the column widths to get a square shape.
When Table is created enter words
C O A T G Then fill the rest C O A T G
of the boxes
H I L I H R I L
with random letters
A E O P A N E O
T V U T I N V
S H O E E S H O E E
P A N T S P A N T S
Page  58 Contents

59. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
•Word Searches
Clothes
C O A T G
Find the Words:
COAT I H R I L
HAT
P A N E O
SHOE
GLOVE U T I N V
PANTS S H O E E
TIE
P A N T S
Print and use
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60. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
Page  60 Contents

61. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Using Microsoft Word
•Sequencing exercises.
Example:
Create sequence;
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
Print document, cut out days, mix days up, ask student to arrange.
•Matching exercises •Choice exercise
OLD CLOUDY Print Example:
TALL BLACK document and The accident happened over ( their,
CLEAR YOUNG ask student to there, they‘re)
WHITE NEAR connect words
Did you ( here, hear) the news.
QUIET LOUD using a pen or
Print document and ask student to
pencil.
FAR SMALL underline correct word.
Page  61 Contents

62. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
Worksheets on the Web
There are many sites which provide free printable worksheets, some examples:
ESL Writing Wizard
http://www.writingwizard.longcountdown.com/handwriting_practice_worksheet_maker.html
EdHelper.com
http://edhelper.com/wordfind.htm
Discovery Education
http://puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com
Apples4theTeacher.com
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/word-find.html
wordsearchfun.com
http://www.wordsearchfun.com
Page  62 Contents

63. ICT as a Literacy resource
Worksheets.
ESL Writing Wizard
http://www.writingwizard.longcountdown.com/handwriting_practice_worksheet_maker.html
Page  63 Contents

64. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology
Text Aloud
Text Aloud from Nextup.com converts text to speech allowing the user to hear a document being read. The
effectiveness of this product depends on the quality of the voice used. There are default Windows voices on most
computers but these will not be of a high enough quality to be effective with Text Aloud.
Better quality voices are available from a number of sources including: AT&T Natural voices.
Text Aloud can be downloaded from NextUp.com . Once downloaded the program can be run by clicking on the
desktop icon:
This will open the Text Aloud window:
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65. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology
Text Aloud
Open Text Aloud then type in or paste text which you want to hear. Then press Speak
You can also adjust the Speed and Volume.
Or change the voice
Contents
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66. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology
Text Aloud Using Text Aloud to read text
Page  66
Contents

67. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology
Text Aloud allows learners to hear a piece they have written or read a piece of text. It can also be useful
in highlighting mistakes.
Text Aloud can also be added to the Internet Explorer toolbar and can read web pages by highlighting
the text on the page and then clicking on the read button
Highlight text on Web page
NOTE: When you have Text Aloud installed on
Then click the read button. Your computer to use it in Internet Explorer
go to: View – Toolbar- Text Aloud.
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68. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology
Text Aloud.
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69. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology
Word Talk
WordTalk is a free plug-in developed for use with all versions of Microsoft Word (from Word 97
upwards), which can help people with reading difficulties use Microsoft Word more effectively. It will
speak the text of the document and will highlight it as it goes. It contains a talking dictionary to help
decide which word spelling is most appropriate. It sits in your toolbar and is highly configurable,
allowing you to adjust the highlight colours, the voice and the speed of the speech.
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70. ICT as a Literacy resource
Word Talk can be downloaded free from
http://www.wordtalk.org.uk
Assistive Technology
Word Talk
Using Word Talk
Open Microsoft Word
In earlier versions of Word the Word Talk toolbar will sit with the other tool bars at the top of the page:
In Word 2008 this toolbar can be accessed by clicking on the Add-Ins Tab at the top of the page:
The Word Talk Toolbar will be displayed as:
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71. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology
Screen Reader Thunder Screen reader is a free software developed for people with
impaired vision. This software reads icons, buttons and drop down
menus so it can be useful for a low literacy student who may not
know what a menu option or button is by reading it. It can help in
reading menu options in spell check drop down menus allowing the
student to hear the alternative spelling options.
Mouse over the
Words and Thunder
Free Download Will read them
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72. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology Spell Checker
Occasionally you need to check spelling in an application that does not include a spelling checker and you don't
want to launch your word processor just for that. This is when tinySpell becomes handy. It is a small utility that
allows you to easily and quickly check and correct the spelling in any application including e-mail and Internet
Explorer.
tinySpell can watch your typing and alert you whenever it detects a misspelled word. It can also check the spelling
of text that you copy to the clipboard.
tinySpell installs itself in the system tray for easy access.
Tinyspell 1.7 (Free) Can be downloaded from http://tinyspell.m6.net
How it works:
When you type for example an email tinyspell will beep when you make an error and will display
A word above the misspelled word.
I.E.
Choose
Correct
spelling
Click on word to
See options
Thunder Screen reader + tinyspell = Spell check with audio
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73. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology Spell Checker
Using Tiny Spell to spell check email.
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74. ICT as a Literacy resource
Assistive Technology Writing.
Ginger Software provides contextual spell and grammar checking.
Based on a full sentence context, Ginger can automatically correct
spelling and grammatical mistakes.. It enables users to produce
error-free texts, quickly and easily. The product operates as an
online service and supports Microsoft text editors such as Word
and Outlook, and will soon support Internet Explorer as well.
Ginger operates as an add in to Microsoft Word.
NOTE: Ginger needs Internet access to work
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75. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
On the World Wide Web there are many
useful learning sites which contain learning
and practice activities. Some of the ones
which we have found useful are as follows:
Spelling City
Spelling City contains an online spelling program that makes practicing for spelling tests fun.
SpellingCity.com has:
- Over35,000 spelling words and eight spelling games!
- A REAL person who says each word and sentence
- Thousands of free spelling lists.
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76. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Using Spelling City www.spellingcity.com
The user can create their own
spelling
list by entering words into the text
box
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77. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Spelling City
Enter words
When you have entered the words click on ‗Test Me‘ ‗Teach Me‘ or
‗Play a Game‘
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78. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Spelling City
This page will open
1.Click to hear word
2.Click to
hear word
in a
3. Type
sentence
word
To use
Spelling City
go to:
4. Check answers www.spellingcity.com
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79. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Spelling City
To use
Spelling City
go to:
www.spellingcity.com
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80. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
There are two web sites which provide the learner with an opportunity to practice spelling
using the look, say, cover, write and check method, they are:
Ambleside School at: http://www.amblesideprimary.com/ambleweb/lookcover/lookcover.html
You can also replace
This page will these words
appear as: with your own
Choose Click go
Topic
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81. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
The following screen will appear:
Next
Look at the
Word, say it,
then click Cover
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82. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
Type in After the word is
word entered click
Check to check spelling.
http://www.amblesideprimary.com/ambleweb/lookcover/lookcover.html
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83. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
http://www.amblesideprimary.com/ambleweb/lookcover/lookcover.html
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84. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
Another good site for using this method of spelling practice
is the BBC Skillswise page. This site also has numerous
other activities which are worth using. To open the Look,
cover, write and check page go to:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise/words/spelling/waystolearn/lookcover/game.shtml
You will see the following page:
Click on the
Play the Game
button
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85. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
This page will open
Click Start
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86. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
Choose topic
Then sub section
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87. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
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88. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check
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89. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Really Useful Guide
This series can also be found on CD
in each centre. Covers a range of topics,
including: Booking a flight online, Finding a
job,
Health and Medicine,
Borrowing Money and Meetings.
http://www.rug.ie
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90. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Literacy Tools
This series can also be found on CD in each
centre.
Contains: Print exercises,
Online exercises, Games and Tutor resources.
http://www.literacytools.ie
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91. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Read Write Now
The workbooks for this RTE/NALA Series can
be
found in each centre. The site provides access
to
each programme in the series and also
contains
online activities.
http://www.readwritenow.ie/home.cfm
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92. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
BBC Skillswise
Contains factsheets, worksheets, quizzes and
games to
help improve skills. An excellent site.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise
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93. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Welcome to the Web
Welcome to the Web is an interactive website that
teaches students all about the Internet through
challenges and activities. There are seven sections
of activities and learning on Welcome to the Web
Throughout the site, students can ‗hover‘ the
mouse over an underlined word and a definition will
pop up. This site also has audio with all text.
http://www.teachingideas.co.uk/welcome/1423.htm
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94. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Write On
On the website Write On, you can study the following areas:
Words
Numbers
Learning to Learn
Technology
In Words, you will work on your reading, writing, listening and
speaking skills.
In Numbers, you will learn about quantity, number and problem
solving.
In Learning to Learn, you will work on making decisions and
setting learning goals.
In Technology, you will learn about different types of everyday
technology and basic computer skills.
http://www.writeon.ie/
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95. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Sight Word Exercises
Online games based on sightwords
http://www.johnmh.com/sightwords/List1/sightwords1.htm
http://www.reall-languages.com/Sightwordssoundspell.htm
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96. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Spelling it Right
This is a collection of free printable worksheets,
each comprising a complete lesson
designed to test and teach spelling skills
http://www.spelling.hemscott.net/index.html#ad
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97. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Wordmaster
Play the game to test your vocabulary skills.
There are thousands of words to practice.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/flash
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98. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Great Source iwrite
Great Source iwrite is a collection of writing
resources and support for educators and students.
http://www.greatsource.com/iwrite/index.html
Tutorial
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99. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Move On – Literacy Test
Online Literacy and Numeracy Test.
http://www.move-on.org.uk/ilr_php/literacy/welcome.php
Take Test
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100. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Common Craft http://www.commoncraft.com/
Explanations in plain English.
―They're short and simple. They use paper cut-outs. They cover
subjects "in Plain English." But lurking under the simple surface
are lessons that have been crafted with great care. Despite our
fun and lighthearted style, we take explanation seriously.‖
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101. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
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102. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Online Newspapers with Audio
Simple English News is an online newspaper
which has recent news events. Students can
click on a read button to hear the article read.
http://www.simpleenglishnews.com
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103. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
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104. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
The California Distance Learning Project
The California Distance Learning Project website
has an abundance of Stories with audio. These
reading exercises are supported with activities
and video. It is an excellent site for beginner and
developing readers. Note: It is an American site
so therefore anyone using this with a student will
have to be aware of the spelling difference of
some words.
http://cdlponline.org
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105. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Read Write Plus -Numeracy Test- UK
There are 40 questions.
Guide
Press 'Begin test' to start the test. A button will appear when the test is
ready.
Each question starts on a new page. Look at the information at the top of
the page before you start.
The picture may contain information that will help you answer the question.
You can click on a button to make it larger.
For each question, there are the four possible answers. There is only one
right answer.
Make your choice and click on the answer bar below it.
The Pencil will tell you if your answer is right or wrong. He will then suggest
what to do next.
At the end of the test, you will be given your mark out of 40.
http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/readwriteplus/resources/livesite/index3.cfm?pf=displ
ayIntro&exid=30
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106. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Teacher Tube
Teacher tube is a site that contains videos on
Many subject areas. Could be used with students
As an aid to explaining concepts or ideas
http://www.teachertube.com/
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107. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Learning
Online Learning Sites
Download
Brochure
Here
With the new I-CANDO digital skills course you can learn all
the skills needed to get the most from everyday technology as it
relates to music, photos, movies and living online. http://www.i-cando.ie/
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108. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Web
Literacy.ie contains links to Nala websites including: literacy tools,
The Really Useful Guide, Written Off and Write On. Click the picture
to go to the site
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109. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Wiki
Learn about adult
literacy education here.
Add knowledge from
your experience
teaching or tutoring
adult learners, from
research or professional
wisdom, or from your
experience as an adult
learner. The ALE Wiki is
a community of practice
with links to research for
practitioners,
researchers, learners
and others.
http://wiki.literacytent.org/index.php/Main_Page
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Contents

110. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Podcasts
A Podcast is an
Audio File
published
On the Web.
The Niace site
Contains Podcasts
on Adult Education
Click to hear
example
http://www.niace.org.uk/news/podcasts-videos/policy-podcasts
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Contents

111. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Video
Video sites
such
as YouTube,
Teacher Tube,
Google video
and teachers.tv
can be useful
For ideas and
for using with
your students.
http://www.teachers.tv/subjects/secondary/ict
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Contents

112. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Blogs
Blogs are a
good
Source of
information
and ideas.
There
Are a number
of good blogs
on Adult
Literacy.
Click on the
pictures
To view these
Blogs
http://literaciescafe.blogspot.com/2007/04/our-blogs-of-note.html
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Contents

113. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
http://southtippals.com/
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Contents

114. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Social
Network
ALTI is a
Network
for Adult
Literacy
Tutors in
Ireland.
It has a
Forum for
discussions
and links to
resources
and also a
video library.
http://altiweb.ning.com/
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Contents

115. ICT as a Literacy resource
Online Information & resources for tutors.
Resources
STALS
Website
Resources
Page
http://www.netvibes.com/peterple#General
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Contents

116. Created by P Cleary. 2009 South Tipperary Adult Learning Scheme
Image by: Wordle.net
www.southtippals.com
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Contents