Microsoft Learning Tools

Learning Tools for OneNote captured the Grand Prize at the 2015 Hackathon, and we used the Garage as our platform to work on the initial concept, as well as early interactions with schools. Since the concept originated as an add-in for OneNote, we learned a lot about taking an early stage “Start up” concept, and iterating quickly with real customers, as we simultaneously expanded the concept more broadly and into other Microsoft products and services. We also benefitted from talking with experts in the field of dyslexia, teaching and learning experts, as well as a great deal of students of all abilities.

There have been many exciting moments along the journey, including seeing dyslexic student reading speeds increase dramatically, and struggling students learning to read for the first time in their lives. Seeing the inclusive design focus come to life has been amazing to watch, as we originally focused on dyslexia, but are seeing broader benefits, including dysgraphia, ADHD, english language learners, and emerging readers. With our most recent 3rd party Learning Tools study, reading comprehension scores went up for all students. This is the true outcome of inclusive design, and helping every student achieve more.

Learning Tools is now available in 30 languages, and we’ve built these capabilities into apps and platforms across Office and Windows, including Microsoft Word and the Edge browser.  As of February 2018, Learning Tools has earned 10,000,000 monthly active users.

Based on direct feedback from educators and students, the team continues to expand the capabilities and availability of the tools that help students of all abilities be successful.