Repository of Accessible Digital Tools and Resources
Accessibility (Moodle Plug-in)
The block allows users to customise Moodle to their visual needs.
The block allows users to customise Moodle to their visual needs. It supports changing of text sizes and colour schemes. Customisations save to the user's session, allowing them to persist between pages, and can also be saved to the database allowing them to apply permanently. Please find the video tutorial on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJoGVSMtipA The block also integrates ATBar from Southampton University ECS (Electronics and Computer Science). This provides extra tools and customisation options, including dictionary lookup and Text-to-speech. Visual customisations performed with ATBar don't currently persist, and can be used as well as or instead of the block's own customisations. https://www.atbar.org/
For:
Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Visually impaired
Type:
Guidelines, Web Accessibility Checker
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Adobe Acrobat Pro / Reader Accessibility Checker
Adobe's PDF publishing software features an accessibility checker.
Acrobat tools make it easy to create accessible PDFs and check the accessibility of existing PDFs. You can create PDFs to meet common accessibility standards, such as Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 and PDF/UA (Universal Access, or ISO 14289). The simple, guided workflow lets you do the following:
Make PDFs accessible: A predefined action automates many tasks, checks accessibility, and provides instructions for items that require manual fixes. Quickly find and fix problem areas.
Check accessibility: The Full Check/Accessibility Check tool verifies whether the document conforms to accessibility standards, such as PDF/UA and WCAG 2.0.
Report accessibility status: The Accessibility Report summarizes the findings of the accessibility check. It contains links to tools and documentation that assist in fixing problems.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Alternative Communication, Colour Contrast Checker, Document Accessibility Checker, Guidelines, Information Formatting, Screen Reader Preparation
Cost License:
Paid
Ally filter (Moodle Plug-in)
The Ally filter provides accessibility scores and tools for files that lecturers upload to Moodle.
The Ally filter provides accessibility scores and tools for files that lecturers upload to Moodle. Lecturers get a feedback icon – a little meter that is displayed green, orange or red to show the level of accessibility. By clicking on the icon, the lecturer will get some feedback on how to improve things, sometimes with automatic corrections. The Ally filter displays a seizure guard over any images that may induce seizures (students will only see the seizure guard instead of the image). A video presentation about this tool is available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNNSbYdAlDY. To use the Ally filter you need to install the Ally admin tool.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Deaf, Dyslexic, Hard-of-hearing, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker, Guidelines
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Online
Arasaac
ARASAAC offers graphic resources and adapted materials to facilitate communication and cognitive accessibility.
ARASAAC offers graphic resources and adapted materials with Creative Commons (BY - NC - SA) license to facilitate communication and cognitive accessibility to all people who, due to different factors (autism, intellectual disability, lack of language, elderly, etc.) present serious difficulties that hinder their inclusion in any area of daily life.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Dyslexic, Hard-of-hearing, Neurodivergent
Type:
Graphic Resources, Text Simplification
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android
ATBar
ATbar has been created as an open-source, cross-browser toolbar to help users customise the way they view and interact with web pages.
ATbar has been created as an open-source, cross-browser toolbar to help users customise the way they view and interact with web pages. The concept behind ATbar is simple: One toolbar to provide all of the functionality you would usually achieve through the use of different settings or products. ATbar is free and allows you to change the look and feel of webpages, increase and decrease font sizes, change fonts and line distance, have text read aloud, use coloured overlays, readability and a dictionary to aid reading. Spell check forms and try word prediction when writing. It is a simple tool which is available for most popular browsers. You can test all functions under this link before installing it: https://www.atbar.org/try-atbar/ It is availabe in different versions – from a desktop version to portable USB-kit.
For:
Learners, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Visually impaired
Type:
Screen Reader
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
Ava
Ava Scribe, is a desktop and mobile app which provides live automatic captioning.
Ava Scribe, is a desktop and mobile app for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. The software provides automatic live captioning to make it easier for people to follow group conversations and keep track of who is saying what, without worrying about reading lips or excessive background noise.
Ava Scribe requires all those who are speaking within the group to download the Ava app. Once everyone has Ava, members of the group can speak into their phone or laptop, and Ava’s speech to text feature transcribes everyone’s dialogues and displays them the desired laptop or phone. Responses can also be sent by the person who is deaf or hard of hearing from their app to contribute to the conversation.
For:
Learners, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Alternative Communication, Automated Speech Recognition, Closed Captions, Transcription
Cost License:
Free, Paid
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
Color Oracle
Color Oracle is a free color blindness simulator for Windows, Mac and Linux.
Color Oracle is a free color blindness simulator for Windows, Mac and Linux. It takes the guesswork out of designing for color blindness by showing you in real time what people with common color vision impairments will see. Color Oracle applies a full screen color filter to art you are designing, independently of the software in use in order to make sure that your graphical work is readable by the widest possible audience. Please note that Color Oracle requires Java (version 6.0 or higher) which is not supported by Firefox!
For:
Higher Education Professional, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker, Information Formatting
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
ios, Windows
CommonLook
CommonLook PDF Validator check that PDFs are compliant with accessibility standards.
This Adobe PDF accessibility checker works works as a plugin within Adobe Acrobat to verify and validate document compliance against Section 508, WCAG 2.0 AA, PDF/UA and HHS standards. The tool enables customized checkpoints to each standard, to meet organization’s accessibility needs.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker, Information Formatting, Screen Reader Preparation
Cost License:
Free, Paid
Platform:
Android, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline
Language:
English
Computer Bild-WLAN-Booster
In order to prolong the user-time when running on battery, Windows usually automatically sets performance level 2 out of 4 for the WLAN-chip.
In order to prolong the user-time when running on battery, Windows usually automatically sets performance level 2 out of 4 for the WLAN-chip. This handy tool will switch the performance level to 4 or offer energy saving lower settings if wanted.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Limited access to internet and IT equipment
Type:
Reduced Bandwidth Use
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
German
Contrast Checker
The tool checks whether colour contrasts comply with WCAG AA and AAA.
The tool allows a quick determination of the contrast between the front and the background, e.g. for web pages. You can choose both colours (e.g. for font and screen background) via colour code (RGB hexadecimal code) or colour picker. The tool then provides information on whether the contrast for plain text, large text and graphical objects/user interface is sufficient ('Pass' or 'Fail' according to WCAGAA and WCAG AAA).
For:
Higher Education Professional, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Visually impaired
Type:
Colour Contrast Checker
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English, French, German
Contrast Ratio
You can use this website to check the contrast on e.g. PowerPoint slides, printed documents as well as webpages.
With Contrast Ratio website, you can enter the colour code for your text and background colours, and the website will check how readable they are. It will colour-code and score the results against the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
You can use this website to check the contrast on e.g. PowerPoint slides, printed documents as well as webpages.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Visually impaired
Type:
Colour Contrast Checker
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
Crick Software
Crick software provides reading and writing support for all abilities.
Crick software provides reading and writing support for all abilities. This software includes:
Clicker- a complete writing solution for the elementary classroom, providing every student with just the right level of support and challenge.
DocsPlus- which provides writing support to high school and college/university students.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Writing Support
Cost License:
Paid
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
Dicom
Word prediction software to help typing in a word processor such as Microsoft Word, Bloc Notes, Wordpad, Office Writer.
Word prediction software to help typing in a word processor such as Microsoft Word, Bloc Notes, Wordpad, Office Writer... as well as any other software where the user may have to write with the keyboard (internet browser address bar, forms, instant messaging).
Dicom supports computerized text entry by predicting words. Typing the first three letters of a word is usually enough to start the prediction, which is displayed prominently in a window on the screen in the form of a list. The student only has to select the right word to see it displayed at the cursor position. If the word is not yet known to Dicom, the word can be saved and then immediately proposed in the prediction list.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Text Predictor, Writing Support
Platform:
Word
Document Accessibility Toolbar
The Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT) supports individuals and organisations to embrace accessibility as ‘business as usual’ at no cost.
Free to download, the DAT is a dedicated accessibility ribbon menu for Microsoft Word that makes it quicker and easier to create accessible documents. Pioneered by Vision Australia’s Digital Access consultancy, and supported by the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN), it features a range of hand-picked and custom-built functions to optimise and validate a document for accessibility.
The DAT makes it quicker and easier to create an accessible Word document by:
- Providing a centralised location for accessibility functions.
- Automating various parts of accessibility implementation.
- Serving as a checklist for accessibility.
- Serving as a validator for accessibility.
A unique innovation and the first product of its kind, the DAT features a range of custom-built functions:
- A built-in screen reader that enables a content author to simulate the experience of a person who is blind or has low vision.
- A table wizard that automates header column and row markup.
- An alternative text wizard that prompts a content author to apply alternative text when an image is inserted.
- A colour contrast tool that helps a content author to find colour combinations with insufficient colour contrast and rectify them.
- A Word-to-HTML converter that produces HTML without Microsoft’s proprietary code and facilitates conversion to accessible HTML.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Colour Contrast Checker, Document Accessibility Checker, Guidelines, Information Formatting, Screen Reader Preparation, Text Simplification
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline
Language:
English
Dolphin EasyReader App
EasyReader is a free accessible reading app for readers with dyslexia, low vision or blindness.
EasyReader is a free accessible reading app for readers with dyslexia, low vision or blindness. Browse & download from a large collection of talking book and newspaper libraries, or copy text from anywhere on your phone & hear EasyReader read it back to you.
Navigate your books or newspapers by skipping directly to specific pages or headings. Search your book for words or phrases. Add text bookmarks or record your own audio bookmarks and return to them with ease.
Features include: - Direct access to browse accessible book libraries - Read with your ears & eyes with synchronized text & audio - Play audio books or add a human sounding voice to text only titles - Choose colors, text size and highlights to suit your visual needs - Copy text from anywhere on your phone & hear EasyReader announce it - Fully compatible with iOS VoiceOver & iOS supported Braille displays and Android
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Visually impaired
Type:
Screen Magnifier, Transcription
Easy Reading
Easy Reading is a software tool to support the cognitive accessibility of web content.
Easy Reading is a software tool to support the cognitive accessibility of web content. Available as a Firefox and Chrome Add-on. The EasyReading software framework is a support tool that users can install on their computer. It will provide help by adjusting web content in real-time based on the user's needs. With the software every user can see a personalized version of any existing web-page. There are three main support features:
- Adjustment of layout and structure of web pages.
- Explanation of web content with symbols, pictures and videos.
- Translation of content into a different language level, e.g. Plain Language or Easy-to-Read, symbol writing systems.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Screen Magnifier, Text Simplification, Transcription
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Language:
English
EASYREADING
Easy Reading is a software tool supporting the cognitive accessibility of web content.
Easy Reading is a software tool supporting the cognitive accessibility of web content. The software is downloaded as an app onto web browsers and enables people with cognitive disabilities to better read, understand and use all webpages.
The tool offers the following supports: • Text to speech • Reading ruler • Increasing text size • Decreasing font size • Increased colour contrast • Increasing line height • Decreasing line height • Picture dictionary • Word dictionary • Augmentative and Alternative Communication easy to read version creator
For:
Learners, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Alternative Communication, Screen Magnifier, Text Simplification
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Online
Explain Everything
Explain Everything provides a collaborative white board that allows students and teachers to study, design and share slides for just about any school.
Explain Everything provides a collaborative white board that allows students and teachers to study, design and share slides for just about any school subject. This is also a great tool for home schoolers, learning support teachers, and subject teachers, who can share notes and visual diagrams with their students or to the Explain Everything Discover content portal. Teachers can even create interactive templates for students. Explain Everything can: - Integrate colour, shapes, text, math equations, videos, images and audio files. - Rotate, sort, flip images. - Record and play back clips to give students a personalized study tool. - Include a laser pointer tool. - Import different file types, including PDFs, HTML and movies. - Students can also import their own presentations & create a movie they can customize by adding notes, images and highlights.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Alternative Communication, Information Formatting, Text Simplification
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Online
Géotracé
The Géo tracé kit was developed for pupils with motor or praxis deficits to enable them to draw and measure with the aid of a mouse.
The Géo tracé kit was developed by INS HEA as part of the national mathematics assessment for pupils with motor or praxis deficits. It consists of a ruler, a protractor, a square, a compass and a pencil. The pupil can thus draw and measure with the aid of his mouse.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Virtual Mouse
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows
Google Cloud Speech-to-Text
This tool transcribes real-time spoken text as well as offers the possibility to transform the audio track of videos into subtitles.
This tool based on Artificial Intelligence is part of the Machine Learning Platform of Google Cloud. It transcribes real-time spoken text as well as offers the possibility to transform the audio track of videos into subtitles.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Alternative Communication, Transcription
Cost License:
Paid
Platform:
Android, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English, French, German
Google Docs
Google Docs is a free online document editor.
Google Docs allows users to create and edit documents online while collaborating with other users in real-time. It is a part of a suite of tools, including Google Sheets and Google Slides, to edit many kinds of documents online. Google Docs is accessible via an internet browser as a web-based application and is also available as a mobile app on Android and iOS or as a desktop application on Google's Chrome OS.
Google Doc Editors are accessible and allow users many ways to write, including; screen reader support, using a braille display, using a screen magnifier, typing with your voice, using keyboard shortcuts and touch input. This can be helpful for users with disabilities who cannot easily see the screen or may have difficulty typing with a keyboard. There is also accessibility checkers available as a plugin for you to check the accessibility of your document before publishing.
Google Docs also supports exporting to accessible formats, including converting your document to an accessible HTML webpage, an accessible EPUB, or an Accessible PDF. Make sure to validate your exported document for accessibility before distributing.
User Needs:
Blind, Deaf, Dyslexic, Hard-of-hearing, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Information Formatting
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English, French, German
Google Text-to-Speech
Speech synthesis solution that turns text into natural sound speech in over 40 languages.
Google's text-to-speech (TTS) technology can convert text or any on-screen controls into natural-sounding speech with over 220 over in over 40 languages. Google utilizes it's cloud engine and artificial intelligence to improve the quality of the voices and speech synthesis. TTS is accessed as part of the screen reader in an operating system and can help users navigate their device, read aloud a digital book and speak aloud translations. Google's text-to-speech integrates with Android's accessibility solution TalkBack for navigation and spoken feedback on Android devices.
Text-to-speech is particularly helpful for users how are blind or have low vision or users who prefer materials to be read aloud to them to assist their learning. The lifelike sounding voices are helpful for early grade learners who are better engaged by more natural sounding voice technology.
Grammarly
Grammarly is an online writing assistant.
Grammarly is a writing assistant that integrates into your browser and into popular word processors. It uses artificial intelligence to make spelling and grammar suggestions and can help you to make sure that your writing is clear and concise.
This can be particularly helpful to those with difficulty writing or with learning difficulties like dyslexia.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Writing Support
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
HeadingsMap (Firefox, Chrome, Edge Browser-Add On)
The optional add-on generates a document-map or index of any web document structured with headings and/or with sections in HTML 5.
The optional add-on generates a document-map or index of any web document structured with headings and/or with sections in HTML 5. It shows the headings structure, the errors in the structure (i.e. incorrect levels), and it works as HTML5 Outliner too.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Information Formatting, Screen Reader Preparation, Web Accessibility Checker
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Helperbird
Helperbird is an all in one accessibility extension that provides tools to make the web more accessible.
Helperbird is an all-in-one accessibility extension that gives you the features to make the web more accessible and productive. Features include: - Dyslexia fonts - Dyslexia ruler - Overlays - Voice typing - Cognitive Load - Immersive Reader - Reading ruler - Text to Speech - Page and text magnifier - Summariser
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Alternative Communication, Information Formatting, Screen Magnifier, Text Simplification, Transcription
Cost License:
Free, Paid
Connectivity:
Online
Hemingway app
Hemingway checks your text and shows you how to make it simpler.
Hemingway checks your text and shows you how to make it simpler. It highlights and colour codes long or complicated sentences. It also shows adverbs and passive voice. It then gives a reading rating against the US grade system.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Text Simplification
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Language:
English
Homedale
Homedale is a freeware providing essential information on possible wireless networks around you.
Homedale allows you to check the network performances easily, compare them and thus find the best access point for you. A very interesting feature might be the optional proposal for your WLAN-channel to avoid or reduce interferences by other routers nearby.
User Needs:
Limited access to internet and IT equipment
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows
LanguageTool - Grammar Checker
This tool offers a free correction of grammar, style and orthography.
Grammar Checker offers a free correction of grammar, style and orthography. Texts can be checked online or with free add-ons for various programs. The tool marks any mistakes in colour and gives some feedback about the respective problem.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Writing Support
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Language:
English
Lire Couleur
LireCouleur is a set of tools designed to help beginners or struggling readers to decode words using the principles of colour reading.
LireCouleur is a set of tools designed to help beginners or struggling readers to decode words using the principles of colour reading. These tools can also be used by dyslexic students and people learning French as a foreign language.
The principle of the tool is to highlight sounds and syllables in different ways. The user can choose the most suitable presentation to simplify and speed up decoding.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Reading Support
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows
Language:
French
Magnifying Glass Pro
Magnifying Glass Pro is a virtual magnifier that enables you to enlarge (magnify) text and graphics as they are displayed on your computer monitor
Magnifying Glass Pro is a virtual magnifier (virtual lens, screen-zoomer, desktop magnifying glass) that enables you to enlarge (magnify) text and graphics as they are: - Displayed on your computer monitor or attached television screen, - Projected onto a larger media during a presentation (e.g., using an application such as PowerPoint).
As you pass your mouse cursor over a section of the viewing area, the display is magnified making it instantly more readable and accessible. In addition, you can apply a variety of visual effects and enhancements to that display.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Visually impaired
Type:
Screen Magnifier
Cost License:
Paid
Connectivity:
Offline
Microsoft Editor
Editor is a writing assistant that can be used in word processors, email and the web.
Microsoft Editor is an AI (artificial intelligence)-powered service that enables users to write with confidence in over 20 languages. It can be helpful in a range of settings such as documents, emails, and social media sites. Anyone can access the Editor capabilities, such as spelling and basic grammar in Microsoft Word, in Outlook.com, and on the web for free with a Microsoft sign-in.
Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscribers have access to advanced grammar and style refinements. Clarity, conciseness, formal language, vocabulary suggestions, and other features are included with the subscription.
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows, Word
Connectivity:
Offline
Language:
English, French, German
Microsoft Immersive Reader
The Immersive reader tool is a free tool which is able to read text out loud, break words into syllables and increase spacing between lines and letters. The tool aims to: - Increase fluency for English language learners or readers of other languages. - Help build confidence in emerging readers who are learning to read at higher levels. - Offer text decoding solutions to students with learning differences such as dyslexia.
The Immersive reader tool is a free tool which is able to read text out loud, break words into syllables and increase spacing between lines and letters.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Transcription
Microsoft Magnifier
Microsoft Magnifier allows the magnification of computer screens.
Microsoft Magnifier allows the magnification of computer screens (the size and manner of use of the Looking Glass can be modified via the menu or keyboard shortcuts). Examples for helpful hot keys: Windows-Key + ‘+’-Key activate magnifier, Windows Key + ‘-‘-Key adjust zoom, Windows-Key + ESC-Key deactivate magnifier.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Visually impaired
Type:
Screen Magnifier
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows
Microsoft Office
This in-built feature checks how barrier-free a presentation or a document is.
This in-built feature checks how barrier-free a presentation or a document is. It identifies mistakes (like missing alternative texts, missing titles, blanks and blank lines), and also warns the user about other possible problems. The items on the list may be called up one-by-one; the program also provides suggestions on how to deal with each item.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker, Guidelines
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows, Word
Microsoft Powerpoint
Authoring tool for presentations with accessibility features.
Microsoft Powerpoint is a powerful authoring tool for presentations that has accessibility built at its core. Powerpoint allows users to add image descriptions, set logical reading order for screen reader compatibility and auto-caption while you are presenting. Powerpoint allows users to combine different forms of media on slides to share ideas and facilitate learning.
PowerPoint is especially valuable in allowing students to use the tool to present their ideas and understanding in a visual way, where they m
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker, Information Formatting, Screen Reader Preparation
Cost License:
Paid
Platform:
Windows
Connectivity:
Offline
Language:
English, French, German
Microsoft Teams
An accessible video conferencing application that integrates with a variety of platforms and learning tools.
Microsoft Teams is a video conferencing solution that comes with a range of accessibility features including live closed captions, pin a meeting participants window (useful for sign language interpreters), limit distractions in do not disturb mode, auto language translation, visual optimizations, recording (to share with users after the meeting), visual customizations and compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers and switch access.
You can read accessibility tips for how to use Microsoft teams to run inclusive meetings.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Hard-of-hearing, Visually impaired
Type:
Automated Speech Recognition, Closed Captions
Cost License:
Paid
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows, Word
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English, French, German
Microsoft Word
Microsoft's text editing and publication software with over 1 billion users worldwide.
Microsoft Word is used all over the world as a text editing and publication tool. It is almost a default application on many laptops and desktops in a variety of operating systems. Many users have access to Word in some form if they are part of an institution, in a school, in a company etc. This generally means that there is a high likelihood that the target user will be able to open the document if you are publishing documents as an accessible Word file (.doc, .docx). The drawback with distributing Word files is you are providing a file that other users may be able to edit and re-upload, so be mindful of copyright concerns and related issues.
Word will also allow you to export your document in other formats including .txt, .htm, .PDF depending on the accessibility requirement. Through extensions you can also convert WORD directly to .ePub using the DAISY WordToEPUB tool listed in the catalog.
Word has a number of integrated features that can be of help to people who have difficulty with writing. These include the ability to magnify the page, a focus mode, use of dictation tools and spelling and grammar checkers. Word has accessibility at its core like many Microsoft products and offers a range of offline accessibility features for authoring including: image-descriptions, logical reading order, semantic structure (ie. headings, paragraphs etc.) and an advanced accessibility checker that can be accessed from Tools > Check Accessibility. This can help users who are blind or low vision as you can make your word documents compatible with screen readers.
Both the offline and online versions also offer integration with Microsoft's "immersive reader" which hides distractions and using a synthesized TTS (text-to-speech) voice to read aloud the text. This can be great for users who have difficulty focusing or learning and prefer to have text read aloud to them.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Visually impaired
Type:
Colour Contrast Checker, Document Accessibility Checker, Information Formatting, Screen Reader Preparation
Cost License:
Paid
Platform:
Windows, Word
Connectivity:
Offline
Language:
English, French, German
Mind Meister
Mind Meister lets you show information visually as a mind map.
Mind mapping software such as Mind Meister lets you show information visually as a mind map. Dyslexic learners can find this easier to absorb than traditional text notes.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Neurodivergent
Type:
Information Formatting
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Language:
English
MOOCs for Accessibility Partnership
The MOOCAP project provided education and training on accessible design in ICT.
The MOOCAP project provided education and training on accessible design in ICT. The project has developed a number of Open Educational Resources which provide information on how to create accessible media and content, such as web sites, mobile apps and office documents.
The project provides guidelines and courses on a number of aspects of digital accessibility including: - Accessible Documents - Inclusive Learning and Teaching Environments - Assistive Technology - Accessible Gamification
For:
Higher Education Professional, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
Type:
Guidelines
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Online
MyStudyBar
A suite of portable Windows freeware applications assembled into one package to support learners with literacy difficulties. It can be run from a USB pendrive or from your desktop.
MyStudyBar is designed to support the complete study cycle from planning and structuring thoughts and ideas to support with reading and writing. Although MyStudyBar is designed to support learners with literacy-related difficulties such as dyslexia, the toolbar can offer potential benefits to all learners. MyStudyBar can help learners to: organise and plan their thoughts and ideas, use colour overlays to aid concentration and overcome visual stress, listen to digital content read aloud using text-to-speech, improve typing skills. As MyStudyBar uses portable applications it does not need to be installed. MyStudyBar can run from a USB pendrive or you can copy the programs to your desktop. Technical staff in schools, colleges or universities can also run MyStudyBar from the network for everyone to use.
NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA)
NVDA is a free open-source screen reader for Microsoft Windows that also works during sign-in and with various internet browsers, e-mail and chat programs and accessibility interfaces.
NVDA is a free open-source screen reader for Microsoft Windows that also works during sign-in and with various internet browsers, e-mail and chat programs and accessibility interfaces. The in-built speech synthesizer supports over 80 language. NVDA has a Talking Installer and can also run from a USB flash drive or other portable media. It supports many refreshable braille displays. User Guide: https://www.nvaccess.org/files/nvda/documentation/userGuide.html?
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Visually impaired
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows, Word
OpenDyslexic Font
OpenDyslexic is an open-source font developed by dyslexic Abelardo Gonzalez that aids dyslexic people with reading texts.
OpenDyslexic is an open-source font developed by dyslexic Abelardo Gonzalez that aids dyslexic people with reading texts. There are different versions (Italic, Bold, Bold-Italic), but all of them use special letter shapes with weighted bottoms that counter symptoms of dyslexia.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic
Type:
Reading Support
Orato
Orato can read out loud texts and users may select from among different voices.
Orato can be downloaded from the website and installed on a PC but also used on-the-go with an USB drive. Text can be copied into the tool and will then be read out loud and users may select from among different voices. The text that is read out loud may be visible or not, according tot he user's preferences.
For:
Learners, Lecturer, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Reading Support
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows, Word
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
Otter
Otter generates automatic speech to text generate an automatic transcription of a meeting/conversation or speech.
Otter generates automatic speech to text generate an automatic transcription of a meeting/conversation or speech.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
Type:
Transcription
Padlet
Learners can add information using voice recordings, videos or typing.
Padlet is a digital “wall” where you can upload files. Learners can add information using voice recordings, videos or typing. This gives them a choice of how they prefer to communicate. It also gives them time to practise or prepare in advance, instead of speaking at once.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Alternative Communication
PDF Accessibility Checker (PAC 3)
This tool allows to test the accessibility of PDF files.
PDF Accessibility Checker (PAC 3) allows to test the accessibility of PDF files. After uploading a PDF file, it checks for different accessibility issues (structure, language, ALT texts, etc.). The program outputs a brief list of any problems, but the user can also open a more detailed report. One can also see a preview of how a screen reader would show.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
PDF Accessibility Validation Engine (PAVE)
PAVE is a tool for checking whether a PDF is barrier-free.
PAVE is a tool for checking whether a PDF is barrier-free. After the document has been uploaded, PAVE will generate a list of all problems. It is possible to switch between a simple overview and a detailed list. Most of the problems will have to be solved manually (some may be corrected automatically). After these have been dealt with, the list will be updated. The new barrier-free version may then be downloaded from the website.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Online
Photosensitive Epilepsy Analysis Tool (PEAT)
The Trace Center’s Photosensitive Epilepsy Analysis Tool (PEAT) is a meant as a resource for developers to identify seizure risks in their web content and software.
The Trace Center’s Photosensitive Epilepsy Analysis Tool (PEAT) is meant as a resource for developers to identify seizure risks in their web content and software. The evaluation used by PEAT is based on an analysis engine developed specifically for web and computer applications. Especially video or animation contents flashing or with rapid transitions between light and dark background colours should be evaluated to avoid the risk of epileptic seizures.
Download link: https://trace.umd.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/peat_2017-02-15.zip
User Guide: https://trace.umd.edu/photosensitive-epilepsy-analysis-tool-peat-user-guide/
For:
Higher Education Professional, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Neurodivergent
Type:
Graphic Resources, Guidelines, Web Accessibility Checker
Cost License:
Free
Robobraille
RoboBraille is an e-mail and web-based service capable of automatically transforming documents into a variety of alternate formats for the visually and reading impaired.
RoboBraille is an e-mail and web-based service capable of automatically transforming documents into a variety of alternate formats for the visually and reading impaired. RoboBraille offers four different categories of services:
- Braille services
- Audio services - Conversion into plain MP3 files and well as DAISY Talking Books, including DAISY books with spoken math.
- E-book services - Documents can be converted into both EPUB and Mobi Pocket (Amazon Kindle) e-book formats.
- Accessibility services - Otherwise inaccessible documents such as image files in GIF, TIFF, JPG, PNG, BMP, PCX, DCX, J2K, JP2, JPX, DJV, image-only PDF and all other types of PDF documents can be converted to more accessible formats including tagged PDF, DOC, DOCX, Word XML, XLS, XLSX, CSV, TXT, RTF and HTML.
For:
Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Visually impaired
Type:
Information Formatting
RoboBraille
Robobraille can transform documents into a variety of alternative formats.
RoboBraille is a web-based service capable of converting documents into a variety of alternate formats including mp3 audio, Braille, eBook and other accessible document formats, for users with print disabilities. RoboBraille is a self-service solution and is available free of charge to individual, non-commercial users who are not affiliated with an institutional setting. Users need not register in order to use the service.
The document conversion capabilities of RoboBraille can also be integrated with library systems and learning management systems in order to support users with disabilities. Institutional use is subject to a subscription fee.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Alternative Communication, Information Formatting, Screen Magnifier, Screen Reader Preparation
Cost License:
Free, Paid
Platform:
ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Language:
English, French, German
Roger Voice
Roger Voice enables users to caption their phone calls instantly.
Caption your phone calls instantly! Hearing difficulties should not prevent you from enjoying phone calls. Simply read the live transcriptions and you'll never miss out again. Why “Rogervoice”?
In radio aviation communication, “Roger that” meant “Received”. Through Rogervoice, you can understand voice calls. Thanks to your plane (the Rogervoice app!) and your copilots (interpreters and speech professionals), you get to pilot your own calls and arrive at your destination: independence.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Transcription
Cost License:
Free, Paid
Platform:
Android, ios
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Seeing AI
Seeing AI is an artificial intelligence application developed by Microsoft for iOS. Seeing AI uses the device camera to identify people and objects, and then the app audibly describes those objects for people with visual impairment.
Seeing AI is a Microsoft research project that brings together the power of the cloud and AI to deliver an intelligent app, designed to help you navigate your day. With this intelligent camera app, just hold up your phone to hear information about the world around you.
Seeing AI is primarily used to describe short text, documents, products, people, currency scenery, colours, handwriting and light. The app can scan a barcode to describe a product and uses sounds to assist the user in focusing on the barcode. When the app describes people, it attempts to estimate the person's age, gender, and emotional status.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Visually impaired
Type:
Alternative Communication
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
ios
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
Souricom
This virtual mouse is ideal for people whose disability does not allow the use of conventional or adapted pointing devices.
This virtual mouse software allows, using a single button (left mouse click or any type of switch), to move the pointer on the screen using a scrolling operation:
- The arrows light up one after the other.
- A click on the button will validate the direction and will trigger its movement until the next click which will restart the scrolling. -The central mouse gives access to left-right-double click and hold functions. -This virtual mouse is ideal for people whose disability does not allow the use of conventional or adapted pointing devices.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Neurodivergent
Type:
Virtual Mouse
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Windows
Language:
French
Speedtest by Ookla
Speedtest by Ookla provides free analysis of Internet access performance metrics like connection data rate and latency.
Speedtest by Ookla measures the data throughput and connection delay of your Internet connection. It measures also data rate for the download (from the server to your computer) and upload (from your computer to the server) direction.
User Needs:
Limited access to internet and IT equipment
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Stamp
Closed captions and subtitles for PowerPoint in Windows.
In PowerPoint for Windows, you can add closed captions or subtitles to videos and audio files in your presentations. Adding closed captions makes your presentation accessible to a larger audience, including people with hearing disabilities and those who speak languages other than the one in your video.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Automated Speech Recognition, Closed Captions, Transcription
StoryboardThat
The basic version of StoryboardThat is available via the homepage either as a 14-day-test version or for free creation of 2 storyboards per week (a log-in is necessary for saving one's work).
The basic version of StoryboardThat is available via the homepage either as a 14-day-test version or for free creation of 2 storyboards per week (a log-in is necessary for saving one's work). Different backgrounds, figures, text, graphics, etc. can be dragged into storyboard placeholders and then adapted according to one's wishes. StoryboardThat allows the use of a dyslexic font (OpenDyslexic). Storyboards created with a free account are freely accessible and may only be used for non-commercial purposes.
Link to French website: https://www.storyboardthat.com/fr
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Dyslexic, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Alternative Communication
Cost License:
Free, Paid
Supertext-Lesbarkeitsindex
This free software indicates the text level of the entered (or copy-pasted) text according to the EFRL (European Framework of Reference for Languages).
The Supertext RIX calculator lets you know – and gives you tips for a truly super text. The readability index (RIX) shows how readable your text is. It takes into account the number of words per sentence and the length of the individual words. The shorter the sentences and words, the more readable the text is. Here’s how it works: upload a file or copy your text directly into the box. Its RIX will be immediately calculated and displayed. We also provide tips to help you make your text more reader-friendly.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Dyslexic, Neurodivergent
Type:
Text Simplification
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Online
Tempus
Tempus is an easy to use and very effective tool to help people with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) organise their time.
Tempus is an easy to use and very effective tool to help people with ASD organise your time. You can set a clock to count down to a waiting situation, brush your teeth or take a shower. Tempus allows you to customize the environment according to your needs: colours, watch type, music and icon on the screen.
For:
Learners, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Neurodivergent
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android
Connectivity:
Offline, Online
Language:
English
Transcribe and Sound Notification
This Google app can transcribe spoken languages and recognise and notify noises.
This Google app was developed in cooperation with the Gallaudet Unversity. It can transcribe spoken language (transcripts may be saved for three days). It also recognizes noises and can notify users about certain noises (e. g. smoke alarm, crying baby). The text size may be modified.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Automated Speech Recognition, Closed Captions, Transcription
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English, French, German
VIP-PDF-Reader
The "VIP" stands for "Visually Impaired People". This tool can display the text of barrier-free PDF documents in a user-friendly way.
The "VIP" stands for "Visually Impaired People". This tool can display the text of barrier-free PDF documents in a user-friendly way. The text may be enlarged; font (e.g. Teiresias) and background colour may be adapted to individual needs.
Figures like logos, graphics and tables can be displayed and enlarged in a separate window. The tool creates a table of contents which allows for quick orientation. The tool menu may be enlarged and can also be used via keyboard. The users may save different profiles. VIP-PDF-Reader works with Microsoft, Apple and Linux.
Hand books in all four languages as well as a video tutorial in German language (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVuKxKvniME) are available on the homepage.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Dyslexic, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Document Accessibility Checker
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
ios, Windows
Voice Dictation
Voice Dictation enables users to type with their voice.
Dictation uses Google Speech Recognition to transcribe speech from over 100 languages.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Dyslexic, Hard-of-hearing, Neurodivergent
Type:
Automated Speech Recognition, Transcription
Cost License:
Free
Connectivity:
Online
Voice Dream Suite
Mobile applications for reading eBooks with accessibility features.
Mobile application for reading eBooks with accessibility features. Apps can be downloaded individually or as a complete suite and include a reader featuring text to speech, a writer that includes proofreading and a scanner to scan and convert text.
Voice Dream suite is helpful to those with print disabilities, or those struggling with reading and writing.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Screen Magnifier, Screen Reader Preparation
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Offline
Language:
English
WebAIM
Guidance and training for creating accessible web content.
A site with resources to help organizations create accessible digital content for the web. WebAIM includes training materials, evaluation and reports, site certification and technical assistance. The resources on the site include checklists for WCAG 2.1 and Section 508 compliance and step-by-step guides on how to make your website accessible.
WebAIM is particularly useful for publishers and policy makers to ensure their online resources comply with accessibility standards. It can also be useful for educators seeking to create accessible online resources for their students.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Blind, Deaf, Dyslexic, Hard-of-hearing, Neurodivergent, Visually impaired
Type:
Colour Contrast Checker, Document Accessibility Checker, Graphic Resources, Guidelines, Information Formatting, Screen Reader Preparation, Web Accessibility Checker
Cost License:
Free
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English
Zoom
Video and audio conferencing solution with accessibility features.
Zoom is a video and audio conferencing solution with collaboration, chat and the ability to host webinars. Zoom has well-developed accessibility features including auto-captioning, automatic transcripts, pin a video window for sign language interpreters, keyboard shortcuts, screen reader navigation and the ability to customize the size of text in the interface and chat.
Explore all accessibility features of zoom.
For:
Higher Education Professional, Learners, Lecturer, Policy Makers, Support Service Provider
User Needs:
Deaf, Hard-of-hearing
Type:
Automated Speech Recognition, Closed Captions
Cost License:
Free, Paid
Platform:
Android, ios, Windows
Connectivity:
Online
Language:
English, French, German