kurzweil

Parents Forum Learning Differences and Challenges - LD, ADHD
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<p>Does anyone know anything about the kurzweil program? I have adhd and also process information slowly. I have to read test question 3 or more times and think about it to really get what it is asking. It takes me around 8 hours to read an average text book chapter. I start to read and quickly start thinking about something else. i don't mean to do it, it just happens. then i have to go back and re read it. this happens about every paragraph or more. sometimes i keep re reading a sentence over and over trying to understand it but i just can't seem to get my attention on it or just can't comprehend it fast. My advisor at disability services recommend i use the kurzweil program. if you are not aware it is a computer program that highlights words and reads the text out loud while it highlights. it has helped a lot. i find it less distracting and takes a lot less time to get through the info and i understand it much better. i also have always learned things better auditorily. they are installed on all the computers in our library and i the ds office with scan my books for me and give me a cd with all the info on it. </p>

<p>however, i was wondering if anyone knows anything about it or the read and write gold program? can either be installed on a mac? also, what other features do they have besides just simply reading the text out loud?</p>

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<p>Yes, you can get them for macs. Google “kurzweil mac” and you’ll find the info. It’s great having the program on your own laptop, since it means you can use the disks you’re given for the scanned books in your dorm room or apt. and don’t have to worry that the library or DSP will be open. The program is ideal for the disabilities you have. It sounds like my son has exactly the same issues as you, and has found the program DSP suggested he purchase for his laptop invaluable. Also, when you purchase it, because it’s a disk you install, if your computer dies, you can easily reinstall it to a new computer.</p>

<p>It is also really helpful as a research tool and study guide, since you can search by words or terms.</p>

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<p>You may also want to check out Bookshare.org. It is a Dept of Ed program that has already scanned many books that are Kurzweil compatible. They will also scan any book you may need for college. They just need 2 or 3 months lead time. The best thing is that the program is free. Best.</p>