Intended Audience: Students
About
ReadSpeaker webReader is a tool that helps students access online content by reading the text out loud. It is especially helpful for students with visual impairments, learning differences, or those who prefer listening instead of reading.
Watch the Video
- How webReader Works
- Reading Selected Text Only
- Where webReader Can Be Used
- Devices and Browsers Supported
Instruction
How webReader Works
When webReader is available on a webpage, a "Listen" button will appear.
- Clicking the Listen button will start reading the page from the top.
- As the text is read aloud, webReader highlights each sentence and word in different colors to help students follow along.
Students can also use the menu icon (three lines) next to the Listen button to access extra features.
Reading Selected Text Only
If students highlight a section of text on a page, only that selected text will be read aloud. Students can click the Listen button from the small pop-up menu or the main Listen button to hear just that section.
Watch the Video
Where webReader Can Be Used
webReader is built into Brightspace, the learning platform used by many students. It works on: Lesson folders, Pages linked through CourseArc, Assignment instructions and Quiz pages. There is no software to install. The tool appears automatically on supported pages and is hidden on pages where it is not needed.
Watch the Video
Devices and Browsers Supported
webReader works on most devices and browsers, including:
- PCs, laptops, Chromebooks, tablets, and smartphones
- Operating systems like Windows, Chrome OS, macOS, Android, and iOS
- Browsers such as Chrome, Safari, Edge, Firefox, and Internet Explorer 7+
This means students can use webReader on almost any device connected to the internet.