Category: Guides and Tutorials

Microsoft OneNote is a powerful, versatile tool for notetaking and organising your lecture materials. Part of the Office 365 suite, it seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft tools like To Do, making it a fantastic option for students and staff alike. Accessing OneNote for QUB Students Through Office 365 Queen’s University Belfast students can access Microsoft OneNote as part of the Office 365 suite provided by the university. Here’s how to get started: Getting Started with OneNote Advanced Features to Enhance Productivity Syncing with Office 365 Tools Integration with Microsoft To Do Collaboration and Sharing Free alternatives to OneNote If you’re looking for alternatives or additional tools, consider: Assistive technology is more than a collection of tools—it’s a way to personalise your learning environment to suit your unique strengths and challenges. By leveraging free AT resources, students can gain confidence, improve their academic performance, and unlock their full potential. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The key is to embrace a mindset of exploration and adaptability. Your learning journey is as unique as you are, and the right tools can make all the difference. Finally, I’d love to hear from you! What tools have worked best for you, and how have

Continue reading

Your comprehensive guide to using Texthelp Read&Write, a powerful assistive technology tool designed to support reading, writing, and learning for all students.  What is Texthelp Read&Write? Texthelp Read&Write is an intuitive literacy support tool that provides a range of features to make reading, writing, and studying easier. It’s designed to help students with learning differences like dyslexia, neurodiversity as well as those who simply want to enhance their productivity.  Key Features:  Learn more on the official Texthelp website How to Access Texthelp Read&Write Watch the Demo Video: Using the Key Features Text-to-Speech  What it does: Reads text aloud with customisable voices and speeds. How to use:  Speech-to-Text  What it does: Converts spoken words into typed text. How to use: Highlighters and Collect Highlights  What it does: Lets you highlight important sections of text and extract them into a new document.  How to use:  PDF Reader  What it does: Makes PDFs interactive with text-to-speech and annotation tools.  How to use:  Dictionary and Picture Dictionary  What it does: Provides definitions and visual representations of words. How to use:  Troubleshooting and FAQs Why isn’t the text-to-speech working? How do I change the voice in Text-to-Speech? Can I use Read&Write on mobile devices? Free

Continue reading

Your complete guide to EquatIO, a versatile digital math tool provided by Texthelp. EquatIO simplifies the creation, exploration, and sharing of mathematical and scientific content, making math more accessible and interactive for all learners at Queen’s University Belfast. What is EquatIO? EquatIO is an assistive technology tool designed for math and STEM learning. It enables users to: EquatIO is available for QUB students as part of the university’s licensed assistive technology tools. Learn more on the EquatIO website. Key Features of EquatIO 1. Equation Editor Type math equations using standard keyboards or shortcuts. 2. Speech Input Speak your math, and EquatIO will convert it to digital text. 3. Handwriting Recognition Draw equations or symbols with a touchscreen or mouse, and EquatIO will digitize them. 4. Graph Editor Plot equations or data with an easy-to-use, interactive graphing tool powered by Desmos. 5. LaTeX Editor For advanced users, type or paste LaTeX code to create professional-quality math. 6. STEM Tools Explore periodic tables, scientific calculators, and chemical equation balancing features. How to Access EquatIO at QUB: How to Use EquatIO: Getting Started Installation and Setup Using EquatIO in Google Docs 3. Using EquatIO with Microsoft Word Free Alternatives to EquatIO If you’re

Continue reading

MindView is a versatile mind-mapping tool that empowers students to organise ideas, plan projects, and manage their studies effectively. Designed with accessibility in mind, it’s particularly useful for students with neurodiversity needs, helping to overcome barriers in organisation, memory, and processing. What is MindView? MindView is a mind-mapping software that allows students to: MindView integrates with Microsoft Office, making it easy to convert mind maps into Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, or Excel spreadsheets. Learn more on the MindView website. Features of MindView Visual Mind Mapping Essay Structuring Research Organisation Revision Planning Presentations Project Management Referencing Tools How MindView Supports Neurodiversity MindView is tailored to overcome common barriers faced by neurodiverse students, such as: How to Access MindView at QUB MindView is provided as licensed software for all students at QUB and is available on campus at the Student Computing Centres and remotely through the Queens Student Desktop. Staff can request access to the licensed software through IT services. Watch the demo video: Using MindView: Getting Started Creating a Mind Map for Essay Structuring Organising Research Developing a Revision Plan Planning and Managing Project Work Creating Presentations Free Alternatives to MindView If you’re looking for alternatives, consider: Additional Resources and Tutorials 

Continue reading