Text to speech software is a powerful tool for proofreading documents. Microsoft Word from 2019 onwards has a “read aloud” button under the review tab (earlier versions can also read text – see Microsoft online guides for details). There are also standalone programmes that do this.
Having your work read back to you really helps pick out the grammatical and spelling mistakes, especially when spell checking to the completely wrong word.
In this podcast episode, Kait Feriante debunks the misconception that people with dyslexia can’t learn to read or write. Kait, who grew up in Albania and traveled globally, discovered that diverse educational models highlight that learning methods should be tailored to individual needs, especially for neurodiverse students. She emphasizes the necessity for teachers to have a broad educational toolbox to address each student’s unique situation. Kait’s experiences as a teacher revealed the disparity in educational support due to socio-economic differences. To combat this, she co-founded Redwood Literacy, which offers evidence-based reading interventions. Their 50/50 model ensures that 50% of their services fund free education for 50% of their students. As of January 2021, Redwood serves 290 students, with 160 receiving free services. Key topics include learning with dyslexia, individualized education, and challenges in accessing quality support based on socio-economic status.
Most Microsoft programmes, in particular Word and Outlook, have a
In this podcast episode, Matt Hancock, known as the UK’s Secretary of State for Health and Social Care during COVID-19, shares his experiences as a proud dyslexic in government. He discusses how dyslexic strengths, such as big-picture thinking and communication, aided his rise to senior government positions. Despite now being a backbencher, Hancock remains a vocal advocate for the dyslexic community, introducing the “Dyslexia Screening and Teacher Training Bill” to address their needs. He reveals his late dyslexia diagnosis at 18 while at Oxford University and the support that has guided him through life.
