3.2 Assistive technology for people with dyslexia – auxiliary aids
Assistive technology can be a game-changer for people with dyslexia, helping for example with literacy and simple memory tasks. Consider tools that remind you to attach documents to emails, speech recognition software that types out your speech, and writing assistance software that helps with spelling and grammar. Tools can also be used to send reminders to attend meetings (or even to take breaks or have lunch). But the benefits of assistive technology can take many other shapes. Dyslexic people might need help with working memory, organisation, metacognitive skills and task analysis. For instance, dealing with interruptions, working in open plan offices, dealing with busy and demanding situations, receiving written messages that need to be read during an ongoing meeting, etc. (Smith-Spark, Gordon and Jansari, 2022).
Here are some common adjustments that can make a significant difference.
| Technology | No technology involved |
|---|---|
| text-to-speech software, speech-to-text software and screen readers, e.g. Immersive Reader, dictate functions in Microsoft Office 365; speech recognition or dictation software, e.g. Dragon NaturallySpeaking | allowing extra time to read documents or to complete work, e.g. by reducing time constraints |
| specialised fonts that can make reading and writing easier, e.g. Arial, Calibri | giving written instructions in accessible formats, and/or allowing employees to write down instructions |
| using advanced grammar and spell checkers | focusing on the result rather than how the task was completed |
| use of multiple computer screens, and adjusting changing monitor settings, e.g. background colour to reduce visual stress, font text size | coaching on skills such as time management, task management, prioritisation and procrastination |
| organising reference material in one place, e.g. Google Keep or Microsoft OneNote | compartmentalising information, e.g. allowing diagrams and infographics; producing bullet point planning and mock-ups |
| online calendars, e.g. Microsoft Outlook, ToDoist (Linear Task List) and Trello (Visual Task List) | physical diaries, calendars and wall charts |
| noise-reducing headphones to help focus, reducing the distraction of background noise | flexible work arrangements, e.g. adjusted work hours (avoiding the distraction of the busiest office hours) or remote work options |
| switching off certain lights in an office | flexible workspaces: fixed desks with a wall behind and/or to the side to help focus; quiet workspaces/areas; allowing people to opt out of hot-desking |
| recording instructions in audio format for later playback | mapping of work tasks to time allocation, to ensure deadlines are met |
| scan pens, as a support for reading printed text | allowing for employees’ own solutions and initiative |
For more information, you can visit the British Dyslexia Association’s page on Reasonable adjustments in the workplace [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] .
Remember that everyone is unique, so it’s important to have a workplace needs assessment.