AT Can Be $Free.99

Assistive Technology Doesn’t Have to Cost Money: Free Tools are Available for All Learners

When people think of assistive technology (AT), they often assume it requires expensive software or specialized equipment. However, many powerful AT tools are available for free, making it easier for students, teachers, and parents to support learning without breaking the bank. Whether a student needs help with reading, writing, organization, or comprehension, there are free tools that can make a big difference.

Below are some no-cost options for essential assistive technology features, including text-to-speech, highlighting, speech-to-text, word prediction, and audio recording.

1. Free Text-to-Speech Tools

Text-to-speech (TTS) helps students who struggle with reading by reading digital text aloud. It improves comprehension and allows learners to follow along while listening.

Free TTS Options:

Microsoft Immersive Reader (Built into Word, OneNote, Edge, and more)
Natural Reader (Free web version)
Google Chrome Extensions:

Read Aloud: A Text to Speech Voice

Reader Speak It!

Bonus Tip: Google Docs has a built-in screen reader that can read text aloud when enabled in accessibility settings.

2. Free Highlighter Tools

Highlighting key text helps students focus on important concepts while reading or studying. Many free tools allow users to digitally highlight and save notes.

Free Highlighter Options:

Kami (Free version available for annotating PDFs)
Google Keep (Highlight and save text from webpages)
Liner (Chrome extension for highlighting and organizing online research)

Bonus Tip: Microsoft Word and Google Docs have built-in highlighting features that work on any document.

3. Free Speech-to-Text (Dictation) Tools

Speech-to-text (STT) allows students to speak their thoughts instead of typing, making writing easier for those with motor challenges, dyslexia, or writing anxiety.

Free Speech-to-Text Options:

Google Docs Voice Typing (Available in Google Docs under Tools > Voice Typing)
Windows Speech Recognition (Built into Windows OS)
Apple Dictation (Built into macOS and iOS devices)

Bonus Tip: Most smartphones have free built-in voice-to-text features in the keyboard microphone button.

4. Free Word Prediction Tools

Word prediction software helps students by suggesting words as they type, improving spelling and writing fluency.

Free Word Prediction Options:

Google Docs’ built-in Smart Compose (Predicts words and phrases)
Gboard Keyboard (Android & iOS – offers predictive text)
Grammarly Free Version (Suggests words and corrects spelling)

Bonus Tip: Microsoft Word and Google Docs both have basic autocorrect features that can act as simple word prediction tools.

5. Free Record and Listen Tools

Recording and listening to audio can help students review lessons, practice reading fluency, and reinforce learning.

Free Record & Listen Options:

Microsoft OneNote Audio Recording (Records and syncs with typed notes)
Vocaroo (Simple online voice recorder)
Otter.ai (Free Plan) (Records and transcribes speech)

Bonus Tip: Most smartphones have built-in voice memo apps for quick recording.

Final Thoughts

Assistive technology doesn’t have to cost a thing! With free tools for text-to-speech, highlighting, speech-to-text, word prediction, and recording, students can access powerful learning supports without expensive software. Schools, parents, and students should take advantage of these free resources to make learning more accessible for everyone.