Summarized by Mary McCan

With Microsoft’s new Immersive reality word program, which debuts next month, dyslexic readers and struggling readers will be as proficient as non-struggling readers. The program, which offers options such as increased line spacing, text read aloud, and alternate color pallets for users which have trouble distinguishing colors will be available on iPads. Microsoft Edge, another recent release by Microsoft, allows for text-to-speech across all web pages, PDFs, and word documents.

Both of the programs are part of a campaign by Microsoft to develop and implement technologies and applications that cater to diverse learners and people. The product could be a boon to students and teachers alike, and just the start of other more inclusive technologies.

References:

Bolkan, J. (2017). Microsoft intros immersive reader for iPad, other accessibility updates. The Journal. Retrieved from https://thejournal.com/articles/2017/10/24/microsoft-unveils-immersive-reader-in-word-for-ipad-other-accessibility-updates.aspx?admgarea=News1