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Accessibility Softwares & Assistive Technology

Accessibility Softwares & Assistive Technology

Accessibility tools are available all around us—often at no cost or for a minimal fee—and can make learning, reading, writing, and navigating digital content easier for people with diverse needs.

Bethel University no longer has a university license for Google Read&Write premium. If you benefited from Read&Write and would like support in exploring other assistive technologies, OARS is available to consult with you. We can help you identify tools that fit your needs and provide guidance on how to use them effectively.

What Is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology (AT) refers to tools and supports that help people with disabilities perform tasks they may otherwise find difficult or inaccessible—with greater independence. This includes built-in accessibility features on phones or computers, as well as specialized software, hardware devices, and apps that support reading, writing, communication, organization, and more.

Examples of Assistive Tools & Built-In Features

Many assistive tools are already built into devices and software commonly used by students.

Built-In Accessibility Features (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android)

  • Screen readers (VoiceOver, TalkBack)

  • Magnification and contrast adjustments

  • Speech-to-text and dictation

  • Captions and live transcription

  • On-screen keyboards

These features can be enabled in your device’s accessibility settings.

Reading & Text Access Tools

  • Text-to-speech tools such as NaturalReader

  • Browser extensions that adjust text size, spacing, or simplify web pages

  • Alternative fonts designed to support reading comprehension, such as OpenDyslexic

Writing & Study Support

  • Speech-to-text tools for drafting written work

  • Note-taking and organization apps with accessibility features

  • Built-in grammar, spelling, and word-prediction tools

Screen Readers & Accessibility Apps

  • NVDA – A free screen reader for Windows

  • Built-in mobile screen readers on Apple and Android devices

This list is not exhaustive and is meant to provide examples of commonly used tools.

Recommended Assistive Technology Resources