The six software packages that were evaluated are listed and briefly described below:

  • Kurzweil 3000, $398.00
    Can read aloud electronic files, using synthetic speech.
  • Write:OutLoud, $158.00
    A speaking word processor with simple formatting tools.
  • Co: Writer 4000, $520.00
    Predicts a typist's next word, and provides spoken feedback.
  • Read & Write, $349.00 A text-reader with additional features and a friendly interface.
  • ReadPlease, $80.00 A simple, straightforward, inexpensive text-reader.
  • Zoom Text Level 2, $719.00
    Features high contrast options and magnification.

The evaluators highly recommended ReadPlease, because of its low cost and ease of use. The software package Write:OutLoud 3.0 was not recommended because of its limited features and many flaws.

To Learn More

To obtain the full-text document for this study, visit the Directory of Canadian Adult Literacy Research in English at http://www.nald.ca/crd/. The document provides detailed descriptions and ordering information for the six software packages.

Reference

Action Read. (2002). Literacy and adaptive technology project. A one-year field text of text- reading software with adult literacy learners. Guelph, ON: Author.

New Literacy Centres

The Bonavista and Clarenville Literacy Centres held their Grand Openings during the , month of December. There was a great show of support at both openings. Greetings were brought forth by several of the guests and sponsoring organizations. During the Bonavista Grand Opening, 'Certificates of Recognition' were presented to the learners while the Clarenville Grand Opening had stories read that were prepared by learners.

Both the Bonavista and Clarenville Literacy , Centres opened their doors to the public on November 10th, 2003 and presently have 16 active , learners between the two sites.

The Bonavista and Clarenville Literacy Centres would like to thank its sponsoring organization, Ability Employment Corporation; its funding , organization, Human Resources Development , Canada; their Steering Committee (comprised of members from various other sponsoring organizations); and its learners for making the centres so successful.

For information on attending the Bonavista Literacy Centre, please call: 468-1703 or 468-1731.

  • Staff:
    • Lorie Skiffington, Coordinator
    • Cyndi Baker, Tutor
    • Judy Trask, Tutor

For information on attending the Clarenville Literacy Centre, please call: 466-6909.

  • Staff:
    • Paul Barron, Coordinator
    • Judy Goobie, Tutor
    • Dara Squires, Tutor