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Accessible Learning

Speech-to-text software for assessments

Functional impacts of a disability-or chronic health condition can hinder written expression during exams. For example, a student with restricted fine motor skills may be unable to manually type or write, or a student with a learning disability may have difficulty translating thoughts into written words.

Speech-to-text software converts spoken words into text. This allows a student to dictate any written component of their exam, including written answers, true/false, multiple choice and bubble sheets.

The CAL Assessment Program supports instructors implementing this accommodation. Please see the accommodated assessment support section below.

Student responsibilities

Attend a speech-to-text orientation with the CAL Assessment Program.

Provide speech-to-text software if your exam will be written on your own computer, for example, Brightspace or Exam4. You can contact CAL’s Adaptive Technology Program for support for support.

Instructor responsibilities

Provide the student with access to speech-to-text software for exams. Engage central and departmental supports if you cannot provide speech-to-text software.

Ensure exam is compatible with speech-to-text software. Consult with the CAL Adaptive Technology Program if your exam uses invigilation software like Respondus LockDown Browser. Invigilation software may conflict with speech-to-text software and may require an alternative exam.

Alternatives

Speech-to-text software on a computer with a secure login may not always be appropriate. For example, there may be safety risks in a lab exam. Alternatives include:

  • portable recording device
  • allow the student to use their own portable computer
  • human scribe

Exam compatibility

Most exams are already compatible with speech-to-text software, although the student will need to use a computer instead of paper. If student’s work on the exam is exclusively written natural language (such as English or French), then likely no additional work is needed.

Speech-to-text software can typically enter text into any field in which a student could type. This includes text boxes in Brightspace, Exam4, and PrairieTest.

More complex software, such as Microsoft Excel, RStudio, and ArcGIS, may not be compatible or may present significant difficulties. Contact CAL’s Adaptive Technology Program for help if your exam requires such software.

Exam invigilation software like Respondus LockDown Browser blocks some speech-to-text programs. The instructor may need to disable Respondus or provide an alternative exam without invigilation software.

Contact CAL’s Adaptive Technology Program if you have questions about the compatibility of your exam.

How to help

Schedule an adaptive technology workshop to learn about the technology your students use.

Accommodated assessment supports

The CAL Assessment Program provides speech-to-text software. Contact the CAL Assessment Program if you have questions about the software they provide.

Learning and Teaching Innovation's Online Assessment Room is a Zoom invigilation service for online exams.