Assistive Technology Software Support
Below is a list of assistive technology software currently supported by the University of Missouri’s ACT Center. These software packages are generally free to use for Mizzou students, faculty, and staff. To determine which assistive technology software will work best for you, the ACT Center provides free Adaptive Technology Consultations.
Note: Each software company has their own support system with web links located in the software title. If you need individual assistance, contact the ACT Center.
Screen Readers:
JAWS (Microsoft Windows Only)
JAWS, Job Access With Speech, is software developed for computer users whose vision loss prevents them from seeing screen content or navigating with a mouse. JAWS provides speech and Braille output for various computer applications.
NVDA (Microsoft Windows Only)
NVDA, NonVisual Desktop Access, is screen reader software developed for users who need assistance in seeing and navigating screen content. The NVDA screen reader can be downloaded free of charge.
Literacy Software (Study Aids):
Snap&Read (Google Chrome and iPad)
Snap&Read is a reading tool for Google Chrome, iPad and more, that reads aloud both accessible and inaccessible text. The tool can pull text into an outline, organize it and add notes to assist in studying. It can also read text embedded in images and inaccessible PDFs. To get started with Mizzou’s sign-in instructions, click on the appropriate link:
GhostReader (Mac Only)
GhostReader is a Text to Speech software application that can read selected texts from any other application, import texts in several formats and listen to them on the go on Mac devices.
Kurzweil 3000 Firefly (Windows and Mac)
Kurzweil is a Text to Speech software suite of powerful reading, writing, test-taking, and study skill tools. Go to our Kurzweil 3000 Firefly Install Instructions web page and sign up for an account. After setting up your account, you can install the software.
NaturalReader (Windows and Mac)
NaturalReader is a Text to Speech software with natural sounding voices and can convert any written text such as MS Word, web pages, PDF files, and eBook into spoken words. NaturalReader can also convert any written text into audio files such as MP3 or WAV.
TextHELP Read&Write (Windows, Mac, Mobile, and all Browsers)
TextHELP Read&Write software includes screen reading, speaking thesaurus, word prediction and a phonetic spell checker.
Other Tools:
Dragon Professional (speech recognition software Windows only)
Dragon Professional uses your voice to control your mouse and keyboard, application windows, menus, and more with spoken commands. Dragon can be customized for speed and accuracy when dictating and transcribing your documents.
Co:Writer (word prediction software)
Co:Writer is a word prediction software that works in conjunction with any writing application such as web browsers, Google Docs, blogs, email, and more. As you type, Co:Writer interprets spelling and grammar mistakes and offers word suggestions in real time.
OpenBook (scanning and reading software)
OpenBook converts printed documents or graphic-based text into an electronic text format on your PC using optical character recognition (OCR) technology.
ZoomText Magnifier/Reader (screen magnification software)
ZoomText Magnifier/Reader enlarges everything on your computer screen and automatically reads any text is MS Word documents, email, or web page content.