NaturalReader

__ Description __
[| NaturalReader] is a free text-to-speech software that can convert written text such as webpages, PDF files, emails, scanned characters, and Word processing documents into spoken words. This tool allows users to listen to the text displayed on their portable device using a variety of natural sounding voices. NaturalReader can also convert written text into audio files such as MP3 or WAV for easier accessibility on an iPod  or media player. NaturalReader is compatible with both Windows  and  Apple  computer platforms. Best of all, this program is FREE.

__History__
NaturalReader was developed by the company NaturalSoft Ltd. NaturalSoft Ltd. was founded in  Vancouver, Canada  who's goal is to develop software solutions for portable devices such as computers, tablets, and cell phones of various platforms (e.g.  Apple ,  PC  ,  Android  , etc.) to transform various types of written texts to spoken audio.

__Impact on Teaching and Learning__
NaturalReader text-to-speech software provides numerous advantages to its users. Voice software can assist individuals with visual disabilities by limiting eye strain through the substitution of audio capabilities. Physically limited individuals no longer need to scroll, click, turn the page or heads with NaturalReader. The program will simply read to them. Text-to-speech software proves to be helpful to people without disabilities as well. NaturalReader can be used to supplement reading, which allows listeners to improve spelling & comprehension skills. Proofreading is another beneficial factor of using text-to-speech software. Listening to our writing will help to correct grammar errors, typos, and disorganized ideas. Other various advantages of this software is allowing users to save time by listening to written text while multitasking with other duties (e.g. while driving or exercising), aid second language learners in learning the English language, as well as appeal to auditory learners who learn best through listening rather than reading.





__Practical Applications__
NaturalReading’s most practical application is used as a tool to supplement and/or substitute reading texts for students. Teachers can use the application reach out to their auditory learners as well as special needs students for all subjects. In addition, students can use this this program to listen to their own written pieces as well as the written works of others. This will allow for better grammar and typo corrections in addition to improving listen comprehension skills.



__Examples/Demonstrations__
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__ ADDITIONAL DEMONSTRATIONS __

__References__
[| http://www.naturalreaders.com/index.php] [| http://greekgeek.hubpages.com/hub/free-text-to-speech-writing-tips] [| http://www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/computer/naturalreader.php] [| http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Wp44-_bAOU] @http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HmGBKPmEc0 [| http://naturalsoft-limited.software.informer.com/]

__External Links__
NaturalReader Website (http://www.naturalreaders.com/index.php) Wikipedia - Auditory Learning (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auditory_learning) Wikipedia - Speech Synthesis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Text-to-speech) Wikipedia - Personal Computer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_computer) Wikipedia - Visual Impairment (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visual_impairment) Apple (http://www.apple.com/) Android (http://www.android.com/) Microsoft Windows (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/home)

__About the Author__
Justin Lau is a student at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and enrolled in the ETEC Master's Program. He works in the Office of the Registrar at the University of Hawaii at Manoa as an Assistant Registrar.