ClaroRead

ClaroRead is a simple, easy-to-use and flexible software program that helps you to read, write, study, sit exams, and increase your confidence. You can read any on-screen text out loud and improve your writing in Microsoft Word. ClaroRead Plus and Pro also let you read aloud scanned paper books and documents.

• Have text read aloud
• Use digital overlays to make text more accessible
• Convert inaccessible documents into accessible Word docs
• Collate research into bitesize information bundles
• Create ‘audiobooks’ from journal articles or book chapters
• Proofread your own work, to hear how it flows

Launch the ClaroRead toolbar from the Software Hub. 

More helpful videos:

• Claroread (Pt. 1): setting up Claroread to read text from the screen
• Claroread (Pt. 2): proofreading Word documents and adjusting pronunciations
• Claroread (Pt. 3): listening to Web/PDF files and using scanning features
• Claroread (Pt. 4): saving audio, and using Claroview, and Screenruler

ATbar

ATbar is a free web extension and desktop app that allows you to change the look and feel of websites and documents. You can increase and decrease font sizes, have text read aloud, use coloured overlays and improve readability. It also includes a dictionary to aid reading. 

Available as a web browser or desktop app on Windows laptops/PCs from the Software Hub.

Microsoft Immersive Reader

Immersive Reader is a tool available in Word, OneNote and Outlook which can all be downloaded using your Office 365 account. It will read documents, emails or lecture notes back in a choice of voices and speeds. Readability can be enhanced by changing the font, size, spacing and background colour. Along with this, focus mode can act as a reading ruler to help you keep track of where you are when reading. 

Find it by going to the View ribbon in Microsoft Word, OneNote or Outlook which can be downloaded from the Software Hub.

ColourVeil

ColorVeil allows you to add a colour filter over your screen to help minimise eye strain and improve readability. It works across all applications and allows you to customise the colour and opacity. 

Available on personal Windows laptops/PCs from the Software Hub.