For children with cognitive disabilities, traditional learning methods can often be challenging and frustrating. Reading long passages of text requires sustained attention, which can be particularly difficult for these students. TTS with highlighted text addresses this issue by providing an auditory learning experience that keeps students engaged. As the text is read aloud, each word is highlighted, allowing students to follow along visually and aurally. This dual-input method reinforces learning and helps improve comprehension and retention.
Reducing Cognitive Load
Children with cognitive disabilities often experience a higher cognitive load when processing text. The need to decode and comprehend text simultaneously can be overwhelming. TTS reduces this cognitive load by allowing students to focus on understanding the content rather than struggling with the mechanics of reading. Highlighting text as it is read ensures that students can keep track of where they are in the text, further reducing the mental effort required.
Supporting Multimodal Learning
Different students have different learning preferences. While some may excel with visual aids, others may find auditory learning more effective. TTS with highlighted text supports multimodal learning by combining auditory and visual elements. This approach caters to various learning styles, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed. For instance, in an interactive table prototype, students can interact with the content in multiple ways, making learning more dynamic and inclusive.
Fostering Independence and Confidence
One of the critical goals in special education is to foster independence among students. TTS with highlighted text empowers children with cognitive disabilities to access information independently. They no longer need to rely solely on teachers or peers to read aloud to them. This autonomy boosts their confidence and encourages them to take charge of their learning journey. As they become more comfortable with using TTS tools, their self-esteem and motivation to learn improve significantly.
Text-to-Speech with highlighted text is more than just a technological feature; it is a bridge to a more inclusive and accessible education system. By reducing cognitive load, supporting multimodal learning, fostering independence, and broadening access to information, TTS with highlighted text has the potential to transform the learning experiences of children with cognitive disabilities. As developers and educators continue to innovate, incorporating such features in educational tools and prototypes will be crucial in ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and succeed.
References:
https://www.xda-developers.com/best-text-to-speech-extensions-browsers
https://www.metaview.ai/resources/blog/syncing-a-transcript-with-audio-in-react
