Read&Write Software Free for All UK Students, Faculty and Staff

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 13, 2016) — The University of Kentucky’s Center for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching (CELT), in collaboration with Analytics and Technologies, has launched a software program called Read&Write Gold. This is part of a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Initiative that CELT is spearheading on campus. UDL is about incorporating principles and strategies to meet the needs of all learners, including those with disabilities.

The software has been out for about a year, and is designed to help individuals exceed academically. This useful tool is now available free of charge for students, faculty and staff. All you need to do is log in to Software Downloads in the Link Blue menu toolbar, and the rest awaits you.

Read&Write Gold is a customizable toolbar that integrates specific features into everyday common applications such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Chrome, Firefox, etc. Features include word prediction, text-to-speech, speech-to-text, translator, phonetic spell check, talking calculator and much more. The software helps students grow their skills in many different areas, including reading comprehension, writing and motivation.

When students across campus were asked about the software and how it helped them with their day-to-day student life, one responded, “This application allows for students, like myself to get the little help they need. I personally really struggle with reading comprehension and this application helps tremendously."

The software is universally designed. UK purchased a campus wide license in order for all students to get an equal opportunity to go above and beyond with this program's help. Tutorials are available within the software, so the process is smooth and simple for the user.

For more information, contact Deb Castiglione at the Center for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching at deb.castigilone@uky.edu, or visit www.texthelp.com/en-us/products/read-and-write-family/read-write-for-education.

UK is the University for Kentucky. At UK, we are educating more students, treating more patients with complex illnesses and conducting more research and service than at any time in our 150-year history. To read more about the UK story and how you can support continued investment in your university and the Commonwealth, visit uky.edu/uk4ky. #uk4ky #seeblue

MEDIA CONTACT: Caroline Kelsey, coke222@g.uky.edu, 859-257-8716