TTS programs and Universal Design Learning (UDL) model in the classroom
Technology plays an integral role in modern learning. The availability of digital learning tools and audio text makes content material more accessible and available to students, offering them to learn, view, and listen to them at their own pace. Text-to-speech (TTS) is a digital assistive technology in which a computer, a tablet, or a smartphone app reads the word on a screen out loud to the user. The technology mostly finds its use among students facing challenges in reading, especially those who struggle with decoding. TTS is a useful tool for English language learners (ELLs) in the early stages of language proficiency. TTS programs present the words auditorily, and the student can focus on decoding the meaning of the word instead of spending all their energy on trying to sound out the words. However, teachers should note that although TTS programs help students address their reading difficulties and access classroom materials, the technology does not assist the students in their developing their reading skills.
How do you see yourself using this resource?
TTS programs commonly find their use in the Universal Design Learning (UDL) model in the classroom (Ralabate, 2011, p.15). The model helps teachers meet the needs of individual students, especially those with learning difficulties and attention issues. As an English language teacher, I will use TTS programs to align with the individual goals of my students that align with their language and content area proficiencies. Teachers employ different teaching strategies for each of the five stages of learning proficiency. The strategies take into account the differences in how students comprehend and process ideas. Students in the first three stages of second language acquisition (the Pre-Emergent, Emergent, and Basic) have limited English vocabulary and increasing seek opportunities to learn new words. TTS program helps them progress in the right direction by ensuring that they learn to pronounce words correctly.