Jenzabar University

Kurzweil is a text-to-speech software that allows you to upload electronic files such as Word and PDF documents into it and makes them accessible. Once uploaded, the software will be able to read the text aloud to you, highlighting the current section it is reading so you can follow along with it. There are several customization options available such as the reading voice and reading rate that will allow you to create your best personal experience. The software also has built-in options for making the text more visually comprehensible as well as allowing you to mark, highlight, and take notes on important points for studying. There is also a writing option that allows you to create outlines. 

Here are the steps to access your Springfield College Kurzweil Account: How to Access your Springfield College Kurzweil Account.pdf

Kurzweil has a website dedicated to tutorial videos, which can be found here: Kurzweil Academy

Review our own Kurzweil Resource Guide. 

Watch our Demonstration Video: Kurzweil Demonstration Video

The Jabra Speak 510 is an external microphone that is used in tandem with apps on your device, such as your computer/phone, to record audio. Such apps that can be used are Voice Memos (for Apple) and Microsoft OneNote (for Android). The speaker helps record the audio and increase the quality while the apps store the recordings so they can be reviewed later. You can transfer the recordings to other devices as well.

This Youtube video explains how to use a Jabra Speak 510.

This is a User Guide on how to use Voice Memos by Apple Support.

This is a User Guide on how to use Microsoft OneNote by Microsoft Support.

Dragon is a speech recognition software that will allow you to complete assignments handsfree. This program will turn the words you speak into text, allowing you to dictate entire papers, e-mails, and more. With verbal command phrases, you are able to format your work as you speak. The software learns as you speak and adapts to your voice for more accurate results. Dragon can also be used to navigate through the computer and search the internet. For more information, click here.

Otter.ai is an app that turns audio into searchable and easy to follow transcriptions whether it be a conversation or a lecture. The app allows you to sync the transcription with the audio and play it back for review. As it is recording, you are also able to take pictures and have them upload in the transcription at the point you took the picture. You can also go back and edit the transcriptions for the most accurate results. The app can also differentiate between different speakers. For a video demonstration of Otter.ai Voice Notes, click here.

For more information on how to use Otter.ai, Otter.ai has a Starter Guide for you to review. 

This smartpen aids in notetaking by combining your handwritten notes with audio recordings of all discussions and lectures. The pen uses the Livescribe+ app to store your notes and recordings on your mobile device through Bluetooth. By using the pen with special Livescribe paper, your notes are copied in real-time to your device so that you have both the physical and electronic copies. With the microphone of your mobile device, you are able to record audio as you write so that it pairs the recordings with your notes in the app. As you review your notes, you can listen to the whole recording or just go back to certain points to review key points or to something you missed the first time. For a video demonstration, click here.

Livescribe 3 Smartpen User Guide can be found here.

Assistive listening systems (ALSs), sometimes called FM or DM systems, are small, discrete devices that increase the clarity of targeted sounds, like a speaker's voice, by simultaneously amplifying the target and eliminating extraneous noise.  An ALS typically consists of a receiver, worn by the student, and a transmitter that includes a microphone).  In some cases, the transmitter may need to be worn on a neck-loop or lapel-clip by the faculty member. Consult with the student for proper placement.