ReadSpeaker logo.

ReadSpeaker is a built-in text-to-speech tool available to all Marist Brightspace users, no installation required. It offers natural-sounding voices in dozens of languages to support diverse learning needs. With ReadSpeaker webReader, any webpage content can be read aloud with a single click. The tool highlights text as it is spoken, making materials easier to follow on any device and enhancing accessibility for all users.

Quick Overview of ReadSpeaker Features

The screenshot shows a UI menu with options for selected text, including "Listen," "Dictionary," and "Translate." The text on the left explains these options, stating that users can listen to, translate, or look up words from the selected text.

The screenshot displays a "Listen Button and Player" interface that allows users to listen to content, read along with highlighted text, and adjust reading speed and volume. The player includes buttons for play, stop, rewind, forward, volume control, speed adjustment, and closing the player.

 

 


 

The screenshot shows a dropdown menu from the ReadSpeaker "Listen" feature, offering various customization options. These include "Settings" for personalization, "Reading Voice" selection, "Enlarge Text" for better readability, "Page Mask" to assist with focused reading, and Help for user instructions. Additional options include enabling "Click and Listen", switching to "Text Mode", and downloading the audio as an MP3.

A light-gray ReadSpeaker interface displays menu options like "Listen, Settings, Reading Voice, Click and Listen, Enlarge Text, Text Mode, Page Mask, Download mp3," and "Help", each with icons and descriptions. Toggle switches allow enabling "Click and Listen" and "Enlarge Text" features. "By ReadSpeaker" appears at the bottom.

ReadSpeaker and Brightspace

Where Does ReadSpeaker Fit In The Landscape Of Assistive Tech For Education?

ReadSpeaker, a text-to-speech tool, is one of many accessibility solutions available. You can use it on its own to enhance accessibility or alongside another solution you may be considering (or already using!). And in some cases, it’s simply a better option than the alternatives.

 

Image of a girl sitting on a couch wearing headphones and has a laptop in front of her.

 

 

 

Accessing docReader, webReader, and TextAid in Brightspace

Easily access docReader, webReader, and TextAid in Brightspace to convert text to speech and enhance reading accessibility. This handout highlights key features to improve learning engagement.

Est. reading time

12 minutes

May 7th, 2024

ReadSpeaker is located below the banner on the “Brightspace homepage”.

How to use ReadSpeaker in Brightspace.
  1. Navigate to the desired course.
  2. The “ReadSpeaker” toolbar will appear below the course banner.
  3. Click the "Listen button". ReadSpeaker will read the contents of the page aloud.
Toolbar buttons include:
  • Resume : Continue reading from the current spot.
  • Stop : Stop reading immediately.
  • Skip Backward / Forward : Jump backward or forward in the text.
  • Volume : Adjust the audio volume.
  • Reading Speed : Change the speed of the narration.
  • Close Player : Close the ReadSpeaker toolbar.
Access Additional Options
  • Click the  icon made of three lines, located on the left side of the toolbar.
  • A menu will appear with the following options, choose the desired option.
    • Settings : Adjust general ReadSpeaker settings.
    • Reading Voice : Choose the preferred voice for narration.
    • Keyboard Mode : Enable keyboard controls for navigation.
    • Click and Listen : Click on specific text to have it read aloud.
    • Enlarge Text : Increase the size of the text for easier reading.
    • Text Mode : Display a text-only version of the content.
    • Page Mask : Highlight only the current line being read.
    • Download MP3 : Save the content as an audio file.
    • Help : Access support documentation for ReadSpeaker.

Screenshots are provided below for reference.

 

ReadSpeaker Help Guides

These linked guides will bring you to the ReadSpeaker website to find assistance for using ReadSpeaker.

Vendor Support Documentation

Button Highlights Handout for docReader and webReader

The ReadSpeaker Button Highlights Handout provides key features of docReader and webReader, helping users enhance accessibility, adjust settings, and optimize their reading experience.

Est. reading time

5 minutes

Aug 20th, 2024

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Having trouble loading third-party tools in your Brightspace course?

Your browser settings might be the issue. 

Third-party softwares include: LinkedIn Learning, Panopto, EdPuzzle, and Textbook Integrations,  may need a simple adjustment to work smoothly. 
Get  easy and step-by-step instructions for your preferred browser and get back to learning in no time

Check Browser Settings
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Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further assistance with the tool, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 845-575-3572.