299. Reimagining Reading Through Visual Design with Hillary Summerbell

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Hillary Summerbell, founder and CEO of Summerbell, a literacy technology company transforming how visual dyslexic learners experience reading. Drawing from her own struggles, Hillary shares how rethinking text layout through her positional reading arc can reduce overwhelm, improve comprehension, and build confidence.

We explore how a simple shift in formatting can unlock access for millions of learners and why dyslexia is often misunderstood as a comprehension issue rather than a visual one. Hillary also walks us through the development of her technology and its potential as both a classroom tool and diagnostic support. 

Join us as we rethink what reading can look like and how design can make learning more equitable for all.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How visual dyslexia impacts reading and learning

• The science and design behind positional reading arcs

• Using technology to reduce visual clutter and increase comprehension

• The importance of equitable literacy tools in classrooms

• Reimagining education through creativity and learner-centered design

Resources:

• Summerbell Literacy Tools: (Explore the reading and writing tools designed for visual dyslexic learners)

• Summerbell Chrome Extension

• Summerbell Research Page

• Johns Hopkins School of Education 

• Transcript

Produced by NOVA

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