Assistive Technology in the Library

CSUDH University Library, with the support of Division of Information Technology, now offers the SensusAccess service, which converts text files to audio files (MP3). This Tool can also be used to perform document accessibility conversion, below. 

Suggest guiding your students to use the tool for:  ​

• Pre-class preparation reading 
• Reading & re-reading of lengthy class readings
• Reading lengthy journal/scholarly articles 
• Quick reading while multitasking at home

This tool is especially useful for users who

• Have different learning styles (prefer aural methods of processing information)?
• Are English language learners?
• Are parents that multitask?
• Have difficult schedules, such as commuters, or those that work multiple jobs?
• Want to take ownership over their own learning processes?
• Have a disability (ex. dyslexia) but do not have an accommodation through DRS?

The Text-to-Speech is a great tool for “Extensive reading”, such as rapid reading of large quantities of textbook chapters, long scholarly articles, etc. for general understanding, with the focus generally on the overall meaning.

What this Tool does NOT do well: “Intensive reading”, which includes focused reading and learning in detail. 

-- The SensusAccess Text-to-Speech Tool and User Guide is at this URL: How to convert Text to Speech - Listen to your book chapters or articles anytime/anywhere? - Ask Us (csudh.edu) 

-- BlackBoard's Ally also has a Text-to-speech function, available only to students enrolled in classes.

-- For PRINT documents, follow the instruction at this URL: How to Convert Print to MP3 - Text to Speech? - Ask Us (csudh.edu) 

-- Please read the Fair Use Guidelines for Copy Righted Materials before you start to convert your document.

-- This SensusAccess Text-to-Speech Tool also has the function of document accessibility conversion.