We recommend the following software for support with your reading and writing.

 

Free software for staff and students

AutoCorrect

AutoCorrect software helps users by automatically correcting spelling mistakes in real time, allowing for uninterrupted typing. It can:

  • generate a review list of corrections
  • offer a printable list of common mistakes
  • operate discreetly in the background
  • allow users to add specialised words to its dictionary.

This tool supports those who struggle with spelling, enabling them to focus on their content without disruption. 

  • Spell Check: Automatically corrects spelling discreetly in real-time. 
  • Review List: Lists misspelled words with corrections and common mistakes. 
  • Automatic and Discreet: Minimises interruptions, focusing on content delivery. 
  • Build Dictionary: Customises for scientific, specialised words, or common misspellings. 

How to install

Whilst using any University device, click on the ‘AppsAnywhere’ icon on the desktop. You'll be able to launch the software from here.

To download onto a personal device, search for ‘AppsAnywhere’ on a browser and log in using your University details. Search for the software and launch.

ClaroRead

ClaroRead is software designed to support reading and writing for staff and students. It offers:

  • Text-to-Speech: Reads typed text aloud with dual colour highlighting. 
  • Spellchecker: Speaking spellcheck with auditory feedback. 
  • Listening Later: Converts text to audio for later listening. 
  • Scanning: Converts printed documents to editable text. 
  • Dictionary: Speaking dictionary with over 300,000 definitions. 
  • Screen Capture: Reads aloud any text displayed on the screen. 

How to install

Whilst using any University device, click on the ‘AppsAnywhere’ icon on the desktop. You'll be able to launch the software from here.

To download onto a personal device, search for ‘AppsAnywhere’ on a browser and log in using your University details. Search for the software and launch.

ClaroRead ScreenRuler Suite

The ClaroRead ScreenRuler suite offers tools to improve reading on screen. It features:

  • Colour Tinting for Screen: An overlay to make reading on screen easier. 
  • Reader Mode: A moveable strip or ruler to help focus on text line by line. 
  • Multi-Monitor Support: Compatibility with multiple screens for a better reading experience. 

How to use

Launch ClaroRead through AppsAnywhere (see instructions above). Select the ‘Extras’ icon then choose ‘ScreenRuler’ to activate the tool.

Other ClaroRead features

  • ClaroView: Helps with reading on a PC.
  • ClaroCapture: Research tool to gather text and references from a computer.
  • ClaroIdeas: Designed for concept and idea mapping using visual components.
  • ClaroPDF: Reads aloud text PDFs.

For a more in-depth understanding of this software, explore our comprehensive eLearning modules.

Read&Write

Read&Write offers tools to assist with reading, writing, and studying, including:

  • Text-to-Speech: Converts text into natural-sounding audio. 
  • Prediction: Offers word suggestions to enhance writing. 
  • Screenshot Reader: Reads text from images and inaccessible documents. 
  • Visual Word Lookup: Provides definitions and illustrations for selected words. 
  • Spell Checker: Identifies and corrects spelling mistakes. 
  • Voice Note: Enables user to leave voice comments within documents.

How to install

Whilst using any university device, click on the ‘AppsAnywhere’ icon on the desktop. You'll be able to launch the software from here.

To download onto a personal device, search for ‘AppsAnywhere’ on a browser and log in using your University details. Search for the software and launch.

Read our

Software that requires funding

Software from the list below requires funding from Student Finance through the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) from Student Finance. You may be entitled to this.

To find out more, get in touch with our Disability Inclusion Service. They can advise you on eligibility and how to apply. Call +44 (0)161 295 5000 or email askus@salford.ac.uk.

Genio Notes

Genio Notes offers a comprehensive set of tools for staff and students. It facilitates a variety of tasks in educational settings and beyond.

  • Recording: Review classes your way with transcribed audio. 
  • Transcription: Capture every last word from your classes in person or online. 
  • Definitions + Diagrams: Quick access to Wikipedia for definitions and diagram search. 
  • Device Free: Access recordings and notes across devices with the Genio Notes app. 
  • Reminders: Easily find tasks marked up in class. 
  • Focus Time: Built-in time management feature to work without distractions. 

Genio fosters efficient workflows and effective information retention for users in any context.

Grammarly Premium

Grammarly offers tools to enhance writing quality for both staff and students. Key features include:

  • Spell Check: Identifies typos, missing punctuation, and commonly confused words. 
  • Tone Suggestions: Guides adjustments in writing mood and attitude. 
  • Rewrites: Clarifies tangled, hard-to-read sentences. 
  • Generative AI: Offers customisable options for tone, formality, and relevance. 
  • Adaptable: Integrates across 500,000+ platforms. 
  • Plagiarism Check: Detects plagiarism to maintain originality. 

Medincle

Medincle is designed to enhance medical writing and documentation. It offers:

  • Specialised Terminology Recognition: Enhances software for medical/scientific term understanding. 
  • Spell-Check: Identifies errors across word processors without flagging specialist vocabulary. 
  • Dictation Add-In: Works with dictation software for accurate medical jargon transcription. 

TalkType

TalkType offers:

  • Fast Dictation: Ensures accurate, professional-quality dictation.
  • Customisable: Adds custom words, phrases, and acronyms.
  • Adaptable: Seamlessly dictates into third-party apps like Word, Google Docs.

Dragon

Dragon software provides:

  • Voice Recognition: Accurately transcribes spoken words into text, adapting to voice patterns.
  • Command Control: Navigates and controls the computer via voice.
  • Transcription: Converts audio recordings into written text.
  • Multi-Language Support: Dictates in multiple languages, supporting regional speech patterns.
  • Dragon Anywhere: Dictate on the go with mobile app features.
  • Custom Vocabulary: Adds unique terms to a personal dictionary for improved accuracy.