Students with reading disabilities or other print-based disabilities may require accessible electronic files to have equal access to their course readings. Many other students can benefit from being able to listen to their readings with text-to-speech software. Guidance, training, and support for reading technology is available to all students affiliated with the Disability Resources Office.
To request an appointment for access technology training, you may use any of the following options:
- Call 607-753-2967
- Use AccessCortland.
Text to Speech Using Your Own Device
The Disability Resources Office currently supports and recommends free text-to-speech tools that are already available to most students.
Read Aloud in Microsoft 365
Most newer Microsoft applications include a Read Aloud feature.
Read Aloud in Microsoft Edge
Newer versions of Microsoft Edge include a great Read Aloud feature which can be used to listen to websites and PDFs.
Spoken Content in MacOS and iOS
The Spoken Content feature can be used on a Mac, iPad, or iPhone to listen to content including websites, documents, and PDFs.
Android Text-to-Speech
With the built-in text-to-speech tool, Android devices can convert text input and play audio aloud.
Text-To-Speech In Other Platforms
ReadSpeaker in Brightspace
Brightspace at SUNY Cortland includes a built-in tool called ReadSpeaker. ReadSpeaker can be used to listen to Brightspace assignments, content, documents, and tests.
Bookshare Reader
Students with an accommodation for accessible textbooks may have access to books through Bookshare. The Bookshare Reader app makes reading easy and customizable.
E-Books
Most ebooks purchased at the Campus Store are through VitalSource, which has its own Read Aloud feature in the VitalSource Bookshelf app.
Other Reading Options
Printed Textbooks
If you have an accommodation for accessible textbooks and need an accessible version of printed books, make an appointment with the Technology Accessibility Coordinator, who will provide you with accessible copies of your books. Some books may be available in just one day, others may take a week or more.
Eleven Reader
Eleven Reader is an audiobook reader with many voices to choose from. With a free account, you can upload up to 10 hours of content per month with no limit to how much you can listen.
Library Research
Many of the readings you can obtain through library databases or interlibrary loan are accessible. To ensure your interlibrary loan readings are accessible, make sure to put a note in the request that you "need a clean and searchable copy." For further information, visit Memorial Library's page on accessibility.
Exams
All students may listen to Brightspace exams using ReadSpeaker. Students with an accommodation for text-to-speech may schedule proctored exams through the Test Accessibility Scheduling System. More information about receiving equal access on your exams may be found on our Test Accessibility page.