Text-to-Speech Tools (Listen to the Textbook)
Most OER do not currently exist in audiobook or mp3 format. However, you can use the tools on your mobile device or computer to read the book aloud. Many systems have this function built in. You may want to experiment until you find an app or system that works best.
See the common Text-to-Speech Tools available below:
Kurzweil and Read&Write for Fanshawe Students
Kurzweil and Read & Write are available to Fanshawe College students.
- Contact at101@fanshawec.ca for assistance getting set up and learning how to use the tools.
Video: “Read&Write: Back to Basics” by Texthelp [10:23] is licensed under the Standard YouTube License.Transcript and closed captions available on YouTube.
Adobe Acrobat: Read Out Loud
Adobe Acrobat Reader can read the PDF versions of your textbook.
- Review the instructions for the Read Out Loud feature, or watch the following video for tips on how to get started.
Video: “Reading Aloud PDFs | Acrobat DC for Educators” by Adobe for Education [1:55] is licensed under the Standard YouTube License.Transcript and closed captions available on YouTube.
Android Devices: Select to Speak
- Review the Select to Speak instructions or watch the following video for tips on how to get started.
Video: “How to Turn On Text To Speech Read Aloud on Android/Samsung – 2022” by ITJungles [5:26] is licensed under the Standard YouTube License.Transcript and closed captions available on YouTube.
Apple Devices: SpeakScreen
- Review the SpeakScreen instructions or watch the following video for tips on how to get started.
Video: “How to use Speak Screen on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch — Apple Support” by Apple Support [0:35] is licensed under the Standard YouTube License.Transcript and closed captions available on YouTube.
Chromebook: Select-to-Speak
- Review the Select-to-Speak instructions or watch the following video for tips on how to get started.
Video: “How to use Select-to-Speak on your Chromebook” by Chromebook [5:16] is licensed under the Standard YouTube License.Transcript and closed captions available on YouTube.
“Using Text-to-Speech tools to Listen to your Textbook” from Using OER textbooks: Student Guide by Jen Booth is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted. Modifications: Updated content to reflect Fanshawe College processes.
