docReader by ReadSpeaker

docReader by Readspeaker is a bimodal content presentation tool designed to enhance learning by reading text from pages within D2L. This technology also offers you the ability to download an audio version of the text as an mp3 file for use on portable devices. 

Bimodal presentation refers to information that is presented in both audio and visual formats at the same time. Bimodal reading refers to the act of reading text while hearing the words at the same time, such as when using speech synthesis software, or reading the text, hearing the words, and having the words (and/or sentences) highlighted at the same time, such as when using text-to-speech software with integrated highlighting.

Using docReader by ReadSpeaker

1. In any place that docReader is available to read the text, you will see an Open with docReader button.
   
2. The docReader player opens in a new window or tab.
   
3. The docReader toolbar at the top of the player window offers several functions:

Show/Hide sidebar. Toggles the visibility of the thumbnail/outline sidebar.

• Page navigator. Jump directly to another page in the document.

• Play/Pause/Stop.  Starts, pauses or stops the audio playback. Repeated clicks on the Listen button will restart the audio playback. (Note that the pause button may not be visible in some configurations.)

• Toggle between layout mode and text mode. Layout mode preserves the original page design, while in text mode, 
  you can control the appearance of the text, such as typeface, text size and background/foreground colors. 

• Page mask. Dims the screen, except for a highlighted area that follows the mouse pointer, or the finger on touch device
  to make it easier to focus on a small part of the text at once. 

• Reading ruler. Displays a ruler that follows the mouse pointer, or the finger on touch devices, to facilitate focusing on one line at a time.

• Settings. Opens/closes settings panel.

• Save the original document to your computer.

• Help. Open help documentation in a new window.
   
• On certain types of course items you may also see a "Listen" button at the top of the file.
• Once you press "Play," the button will expand to offer more options:
  • The volume icon will regulate the volume.
    
  • The gear icon will open a window with a variety of settings.
    
  • The download icon will download an .mp3 file to your computer.
    
  • To close the mini-player click the Close button.