Below is a list of software currently supported by the University of Missouri’s IT Accessibility Center. If you are interested in having a program installed on your computer, please contact us.

If you would like assistance deciding on a program, we offer an Assistive Technology Consultation at no-charge. Training and Assistive Technology Support with a staff member is available to individuals learning a new product.

Screen Readers

JAWS

JAWS, Job Access With Speech, is software developed for computer users whose vision loss prevents them from seeing screen content or navigating with a mouse. JAWS provides speech and Braille output for various computer applications. JAWS is for the Windows operating system only.

NVDA

NVDA, NonVisual Desktop Access, is screen reader software developed for users who need assistance in seeing and navigating screen content. The NVDA screen reader can be downloaded free of charge. NVDA is for the Windows operating system only. To download, visit the NVDA Download Page.

Magnification

ZoomText Magnifier/Reader

ZoomText Magnifier/Reader enlarges everything on your computer screen and automatically reads aloud text in word documents, email, or web page content. It is a very helpful tool for those needing a magnification tool and a text-to-speech tool combined. ZoomText is for the Windows operating system only.

Reading and Writing

Kurzweil 3000 is a literacy software suite of powerful reading, writing, and study skill tools. Even though this program is primarily used for MU’s alternative text format accommodation, it is available to all MU faculty, staff and students. Kurzweil also includes an extension for reading within a web browser.Visit our Kurzweil 3000 page and sign up for a Firefly account and install the software.

TextHELP Read&Write software includes text-to-speech, a PDF reader, highlighting tools, screen masking tools, dictionary, and an extension for using it in the Google environment. MU faculty, staff and students are welcome to Try Read&Write for 30 days. Once the trial period expires, contact the IT Accessibility Center for a full license if you are interested in continued use.

Dragon Professional, for the Windows operating system only, uses your voice to control your mouse and keyboard, application windows, menus, and more with spoken commands. Dragon can be customized for speed and accuracy when dictating and transcribing your documents.

Note: If you are looking for an easy-to-learn speech-to-text tool, you may be interested in the Microsoft 0365 dictation tool that works with email, Word and any Microsoft application. There is no in-depth training, just click the dictation icon and start speaking.