WordQ for Google Chrome

WordQ for Google Chrome™ is a self-contained writing application designed with the needs of students using Chromebooks™ in mind. This simple-to-use web app lets students read, write, and manipulate documents and PDFs in a controlled area linked to their Google account.

NOTE: WordQ for Google Chrome is not an extension and does not work across other applications.

When students use WordQ, they can access, create, edit, and save both documents and PDFs to and from their Google Drive™, virtually anywhere they can log in. WordQ has the tools to help students reach their potential such as state-of-the-art word prediction, text-to-speech capability for better comprehension and effective proofreading, simple speech recognition for voice typing, a built-in screen contrast tool, customizable static topics and ThoughtQ dynamic topics.

WordQ for Google Chrome™ is available for individual purchase, in volumes, and school/district-wide. A Google domain email is required.

Volume users are managed directly by schools using a Client Access Panel set up for their school.

School/district-wide usage requires a unique Google domain.

Both English and French are supported.

WordQ fully supports both English and French providing state-of-the-art word prediction and text-to-speech features in each language. Users can switch between English and French vocabularies, making it ideal for bilingual environments or for those learning either language.

• One version for both English and French with automatic display of the appropriate user interface based on system language.

• Available dictionaries/vocabularies include:

  • Canadian English (Elementary, Intermediate, Secondary)

  • US English (Elementary, Intermediate, Secondary)

  • UK English (Elementary, Intermediate, Secondary)

  • Canadian French (générale, nouvelle orthographe)

  • European French (générale, nouvelle orthographe)

• Word Prediction: Based on years of research, WordQ for Chrome boasts our most intelligent word prediction yet. It provides accurate, contextually relevant, word suggestions for students to choose from, in as few as 1.3 keystrokes.

• Homonym usage examples: See and hear examples of how a close-sounding words are used.

• Speech Feedback: Speech feedback reads what students write aloud to them as they type. This helps them notice mistakes as they draft and reinforcing proper pronunciation for difficult or unfamiliar words.

• Proofreading: What students have typed can be read aloud to them when they’ve finished writing. By using both auditory and visual cues, students are more easily able to notice and correct their own mistakes and typos.

• Simple Speech Recognition: Built-in simple speech recognition uses Google Voice™️ to offer students a basic, accurate, and easy-to-use voice-to-text dictation option. No training required.

• PDF Access: Students can use PDF Access to forms, complete assignments, take tests, annotate, and mark-up PDFs with full access to all of WordQ’s built-in accessibility tools and assistive technologies.

• Screen Contrast: The newest addition to WordQ’s accessibility features, the screen contrast tool, allows students to adjust background colour and intensity with ease, helping them to create a comfortable digital reading environment.

• ThoughtQ: Integrates dynamic topic lists, helping students research new topics online easily and safely.

• Topic List: Create or upload topic lists which will then be prioritized in the word prediction list.

• Exam Mode: An accessible area for students who need support during tests; ensuring equity not an advantage.

• Custom Vocabulary: Users may add personalized vocabulary which will appear in the prediction list with a usage example.Vocabulary customization: Add your own words.

• Online help: Complete user help is available online.

• Improved spelling accuracy: Studies have shown that word prediction can significantly reduce spelling errors

• Increased writing fluency: Some research indicates that word prediction can help increase the rate of text production

• Reduced keystrokes: Word prediction typically reduces the number of keystrokes needed to type words,

• Enhanced vocabulary use: Word prediction may encourage users to employ a wider variety of words

• Improved confidence and independence: Many users report feeling more confident in their writing abilities

WordQ is an assistive technology tool designed to support reading and writing for individuals facing learning barriers, such as students with learning differences or those acquiring a new language. This supports the principles of making the individual an active participant in their learning rather than a  mere spectator. It features intelligent word prediction, text-to-speech, speech recognition, and proofreading, helping users find and correct mistakes, expand vocabulary, and improve comprehension without judgment or pressure. 

WordQ’s approach exemplifies intelligent assistance (IA): it actively supports users in performing tasks, enhancing their abilities and independence, but always keeps the individual in control.

In contrast, artificial intelligence (AI) focuses on creating systems that can mimic or replicate human intelligence, often operating autonomously to solve complex problems, make decisions, or learn from data. 

While intelligent assistance like WordQ augments an individual’s capability within defined boundaries, artificial intelligence aims for broader autonomy and adaptability, sometimes functioning independently of direct human input

 WordQ is described as intelligent assistance (IA), encouraging active participation and independence in reading and writing, rather than functioning as AI that completes tasks for the user. This approach fosters confidence, self-reliance, and effective communication