Choose among four tool types by the task: text-to-speech reads digital text aloud, speech-to-text enters spoken words, reading displays can adjust spacing or focus, and word-processing tools can help organize or revise text. Check the student's device, assignment format, supported language and school account settings before adding an app.
Reading and writing tools solve different tasks. A student may need text read aloud, a way to dictate a draft, or display controls that change spacing and focus. Start with the assignment and device already in use, then test the feature before adding a separate subscription or account.
Match the tool to the task
| Tool type | What it does and what to check |
|---|---|
| Text-to-speech | Reads selected or on-screen text aloud; check that it works in the book, PDF, website or learning platform |
| Speech-to-text | Converts spoken words into editable text; check language support, microphone access and editing controls |
| Reading display controls | Changes presentation, spacing, line focus or highlighting; test the required text and device |
| Writing support | Offers dictation, spelling, grammar or word-choice features; check whether the student can review suggestions and edit the final work |
Google’s Chromebook accessibility settings include Select-to-speak and dictation. Microsoft’s Immersive Reader for Word can read text aloud and adjust how a document appears, while Word dictation converts speech into text. Availability depends on the device, application and account.
Check compatibility before adding a tool
- Open the exact format the student receives in class, such as a web page, scanned worksheet or editable document.
- Check voice, language and playback controls; confirm that the tool highlights the word or sentence being read if that matters to the student.
- For dictation, test microphone access, punctuation commands, editing and internet requirements in the writing app.
- Ask the school whether its managed device or account allows the feature and whether a separate login is needed.
- Read the current privacy terms for any app that records or processes speech, and check the school’s rules before creating a student account.
Some tools read text already on screen; others can only read documents opened in a supported application. Scanned pages may require text recognition before read-aloud works. Try the assignment with the student and note which step is difficult to use, then discuss useful options with the teacher or support team.
For structured reading support, see the dyslexia reading-tools checklist. For device choices, compare student laptops and tablets, then browse learning-support guides.
Sources
Common questions
What is the difference between text-to-speech and speech-to-text?
Text-to-speech reads on-screen text aloud. Speech-to-text converts spoken words into text that can be edited in a document or another writing field.
Can built-in tools read school assignments aloud?
Some can. Chromebook Select-to-speak reads selected on-screen text, and Microsoft Immersive Reader can read compatible Word documents. Check the exact device and app used for class.
Do assistive writing tools work in every school app?
No. Test the feature in the actual document, browser and assignment platform, and ask the school about managed-device settings and permitted tools.
What should I check before using voice typing?
Check microphone access, supported language, editing commands, internet requirements and how the service handles voice data. Practice correcting punctuation and names in the same app the student will use.