Electronic books can be a part of the classroom library and are useful to support struggling readers. Accessibility features such as audio support with text-to-speech, enhanced resources, and study tools are important and often necessary features for students with disabilities.
Electronic books can be a part of the classroom library and are useful to support struggling readers. Accessibility features such as audio support with text-to-speech, enhanced resources, and study tools are important and often necessary features for students with disabilities (Anderson-Inman & Horney,1999; Anderson-Inman & Horney, 2007; Blanck, 2010). Careful screening of eBook sites and services can assist with selecting the appropriate features specific to the needs of the student.
Application and Resources
eBooks to Use with Switches
- Tar Heel Reader offers free eBooks with multiple interface access including touch screens and alternative keyboards.
- Reading Planet at Reading is Fundamental (RIF).
Enhanced Resources: Text can be Adapted
- Accessible Book Collection, low cost digital books specifically for students with vision or print disabilities.
Text-to-Speech: Audio with Real or Synthesized Voices
- Start to Finish Library, a variety of titles with accessibility features, are available from the TTAC ODU Lending Library.
- Tumblebooks
- TTS Text Reader–-free
References
Anderson-Inman, L. & Horney, M. (1999, April) Electronic Books: Reading and Studying with Supportive Resources.
Anderson-Inman, L., & Horney, M. (2007). Supported eText: Assistive technology through text transformations. Reading Research Quarterly, 42(1), 153-160.
Blanck, P. (2010). E-books must be accessible, and that means audio. Chronicle of Higher Education, 56(26), A31.
