Inclusive Technology

Read&Write is a literacy support tool that offers help for everyday tasks. With tools to meet the needs of different learners, right across the curriculum. Like reading text out loud, understanding unfamiliar words and proofing written work.

MindView is a professional mind mapping software that allows you to visually brainstorm, organize and present ideas.

Speech Recognition: Dragon Naturally Speaking (Windows only)

Using Dragon Naturally Speaking you can dictate and have your speech transcribed into written text, have a written document converted into an audio stream and use Dragon to create voice commands that activate any specified computer functions. Headphones and microphone sets are provided by LSE.

 Screen Reader: JAWS

JAWS is a computer screen reader program that reads aloud all functions, commands and screen text to blind and visually impaired users to assist the user with navigation and functioning of the computer. 

EquatIO is a math application that allows you to insert, edit, and interact with digital math in Microsoft Word.

Please contact the Disability and Mental Health Service (DHMS) who can provide further information about support available to current students.

• disability-wellbeing@lse.ac.uk
• 020 7955 7567

If you have difficulty writing or typing, you may want to try dictation software. This is sometimes referred to as 'speech to text' software.
This type of program makes your computer or device type what you say.

There are two ways to access dictation software for free, which is in-built for Mac users, or available through Microsoft Word for PC users. If you do not find either of these options work very accurately with your voice you may wish to explore using a form of the Dragon software.

Dragon Anywhere is an app from the world leaders in dictation software which adapts to your voice and works very accurately for most users. Versions are also available for desktops and laptops.

If you have you have difficulties reading a screen for long periods, or find it difficult to process verbal information, you may want to try out the various free and easy ways in which your computer or device can read to you:

• Most digital documents can be read out loud using built-in functionality
• Browsers such as Google Chrome have read aloud extensions for use on webpages
• Alternatively you can cope and paste any text into the Text to Speech Reader website

The following webpages contain a lot of useful tips and tricks to make your device easier to use:

• My computer my way from AbilityNet provides guidance for people with visual impairment, deaf or hard of hearing, motor difficulties and SpLDs
• Diversity and Ability’s resources list includes guides and reviews of the many different types of Assistive Technology available

If you are a disabled student needing additional assistive technology, you will need to contact Disability and Mental Health Service (DHMS).