Dr Denise M Robinson

Search results for: “setting”

  • JAWS UEB/Nemeth Settings + Accessible Math in Word & Braille Editor

    JAWS UEB/Nemeth Settings-Word and Braille Math Editor
    JAWS UEB MATHS/Nemeth Settings-Word and Braille Math Editor

    If you’ve ever struggled to get JAWS to read math correctly on your computer, this walk-through will make your life much easier. In this video, I demonstrate how to set JAWS for either UEB Maths or Nemeth math using the JAWS UEB/Nemeth Settings, then show you how to create accessible math using Word’s Math Editor and the Braille Math Editor. Whether you’re a TVI (Teacher of the Blind), a student, or an AT (Access Technology) specialist, these steps will help you produce clear, accurate, and accessible math every time.

    WORD MATH EDITOR Setup

    1. Open the Math Editor

    • Alt + =

    2. Open the Equation Tools tab

    • Alt + J, E

    3. Open Math Options (Settings)

    • T, 1
      (This opens the Math Options dialog.)

    4. Set Alignment to Left
    Inside the Math Options dialog:

    • Alt + J → moves to Justification
    • L → Left alignment
    • Alt + D → Set as Default
    • Tab, Tab → to OK
    • Enter
    • When asked to save as default, choose Yes
      (This saves the settings to the Normal template.)

    5. Check Conversion (if math looks wrong)

    While inside a math zone:

    • Alt + =
    • Alt + J, E
    • C → Convert
    • Make sure it is set to Professional

    WORD MATH EDITOR — Command Sequence (JAWS + Keyboard)

    Open the Math Editor

    • Press Alt + =
      This inserts a new math zone and opens the Word Math Editor.

    Move in and out of the math zone

    • Right Arrow → move into the math zone
    • Right Arrow again → move through elements
    • Left Arrow → move backward
    • Esc → exit the math zone and return to normal text

    Insert common structures

    • Fraction → Ctrl + /
    • Exponent → Ctrl + Shift + =
    • Subscript → Ctrl + =
    • Square root → type \sqrt then press Space
    • Matrix → type \matrix then press Space
    • Parentheses → type ( then ) (Word auto‑sizes them)

    Insert math symbols using LaTeX shortcuts

    • \pi + Space → π
    • \alpha + Space → α
    • \neq + Space → ≠
    • \le + Space → ≤
    • \ge + Space → ≥
    • \div for divide
    • \times for times
    • \sqrt for square root

    (Word’s Math Editor accepts most LaTeX commands-check out list in link.)

    Navigate inside structures

    • Right Arrow → move to next placeholder
    • Left Arrow → move back
    • Ctrl + Right Arrow → jump out of a structure
    • Ctrl + Left Arrow → jump into previous structure
    • To read the braille the easiest–OPEN BME

    BRAILLE MATH EDITOR (BME) — Command Sequence (JAWS + Keyboard)

    Open the Braille Math Editor

    • Press Alt + Shift + =
      (This opens the BME window for UEB contracted math input.)

    Choose UEB or Nemeth

    Inside BME:

    • Press Alt + M → opens Math Code menu
    • Press U → UEB Math
    • Press N → Nemeth Math

    (You can teach students to confirm the code before typing.)

    Enter math using braille input

    • Type using six‑key entry on the braille display or keyboard
    • Use Space to confirm symbols
    • Use Backspace to correct braille cells

    Navigate inside the math expression

    • Left Arrow → move left
    • Right Arrow → move right
    • Ctrl + Left Arrow → jump to previous element
    • Ctrl + Right Arrow → jump to next element

    Insert common structures

    • Fraction → dots 3‑4 then 3‑4 (opening and closing fraction indicators)
    • Superscript → dot 5
    • Subscript → dot 2
    • Square root → dots 1‑2‑3‑5
    • Parentheses → dots 1‑2‑6 and 3‑5‑6

    (These follow UEB math rules; Nemeth uses different indicators.)

    Send math back to Word

    • Press Alt + S → Save and return to Word
    • The math appears in the document as a fully formatted math object

    Exit without saving

    • Press Alt + F4
    • Choose No if you don’t want to insert the math

    Watch Video for full details and below are essential keyboard commands to teach students.

  • Optimizing Windows 11 Efficiency for Screen Reader with Key Settings and Configurations

    Optimizing Windows 11 Efficiency for Screen Reader with Key Settings and Configurations takes an hour most often 2 or so to complete. Longer if you are new to screen reader and how Windows 11 works. It is different than other OS systems so give yourself grace as you learn all there is to know about this system. As you move through your keyboard and discover you would like a particular key somewhere, like the applications key, you can remap a key to create that yourself. AND, you MUST have Local Admin on School Computers.

    How to setup Computer for Optimizing Windows 11 Efficiency

    • Change Taskbar Settings
    • Update Computer every day
    • Go to task manager and disable anything you do not need at start up
    • Go to Power Options and change from Sleep to Shut Down when you press Shut down button
      • take off sleep options in general unless you are advanced user
      • Keep in mind that your screen reader cannot reset or the RAM clear if you computer is in sleep mode or hibernate mode
    • Go to Addition Mouse setting and select the “snap to” mouse option and CTRL option
    • Turn off Touch pad- if you do not your palm will touch the mouse pad and auto activate items or move your cursor on your computer. This equals huge frustration to a screen reader user.
    • Windows T and clear that taskbar–this is million dollar real-estate to access programs fast
    • Setup WORD
    • Go to control panel and setup Sound card options
    • Windows and adjust other sound options using sndvol.exe
    • Setup Gmail and Drive and learn new commands
    • Setup Outlook
    Optimizing Windows 11 Efficiency with Taskbar setting
    Taskbar setting for Windows 11 setup

    Efficiency for Screen Readers and other Setup Skills

    Setup or adjust Screen readers and Braille Display for Optimizing Windows 11 Efficiency

    Proper Set up Windows 11 to work with screen readers and braille displays is crucial for visually impaired users. This configuration ensures smooth interaction with the system, giving users full access to information and applications such as Gmail for optimizing access..

    1. Accessibility and Independence

    Configuring Windows 11 for screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, or Narrator, and integrating braille displays, provides full independence. Without proper setup, tasks such as reading documents, browsing, or using software become challenging. A well-configured system ensures all functions are accessible.

    2. Productivity and Efficiency

    Screen readers and braille displays let users interact quickly with the system. Setting up Windows 11 for compatibility speeds up responses to commands. It also ensures smoother transitions between applications, making multitasking more efficient. Proper configuration prevents lag or software conflicts, which increases productivity in school and work settings.

    3. Customization for Personalized Needs

    Each user has different needs. Windows 11 allows users to customize screen reader settings (e.g., speech rate, verbosity, and key commands) and braille displays (e.g., output type and formatting). These adjustments create a personalized experience, improving comfort and reducing frustration.

    4. Enhanced Braille Support

    Windows 11 offers enhanced braille support when paired with leading screen readers. Proper setup lets users access seamless braille input and output for text and math. It also allows advanced navigation of documents. Correct braille display configuration ensures accurate reading and editing of both simple text and more complex content.

    5. Compatibility with Updates

    As Windows 11 updates, keeping screen readers and braille displays integrated is essential. A well-maintained setup ensures new features or security updates don’t disrupt accessibility tools. This is vital for maintaining ongoing access such as the new Google Commands for navigation.

    Key Setup Steps for Optimizing Windows 11 for Accessibility:

    • Ensure Compatibility: Install the latest versions of screen readers and braille display drivers compatible with Windows 11.
    • Enable and Configure Narrator: Windows 11 includes Narrator, which can be set up for basic tasks if needed.
    • Customize Keyboard Shortcuts: Set up shortcuts for easier navigation and quicker interaction.
    • Adjust Accessibility Settings: Go to “Accessibility” in the Settings app to adjust visual and audio cues like contrast and text size.
    • Test with Braille Displays: Pair and calibrate braille displays for reading and input in UEB or Nemeth, depending on preferences.

    With proper set up, Windows 11 for screen readers and braille displays furthers accessibility. This setup enhances independence, productivity, and ease of use in the digital world.

    If you have low vision challenges, this lesson is for you and setting up computer is essential with commands to change mouse

    Learn Proper Touch Typing skills with these great commands you are learning to optimize Windows 11 efficiency.

    Add PDF Lessons:

    Math and taking inaccessible to accessible in WORD

    Type directly on a PDF

    Transcribe Math Images from PDF

    Take Large PDFs and Print to PDF for a few pages

    Platform Knowledge for Access

    Schoology with Jaws

    Schoology Navigation

    Canvas platform-Keep in mind, a platform can to totally accessible but totally INACCESSIBLE work can be placed on it.

    Acellus Platform

    Zoology with RedShelf Platform

    Let us know how we can help you: Contact US: TechVisionTraining@yourtechvision.com

  • Setup Windows 11 settings to work best & most efficient with screen readers part 2

    Windows 11 screen reader setup-Part 2

    In this video of Windows 11 screen reader setup part 2, Dr. Denise Robinson walks you through how to enable proper settings to make Windows 11 work better with screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, and Narrator pt 1 and this is part 2. She suggests using more than one screen reader—ideally two or three—to cover all your needs. If you need to remap a key to say, acquire an applications key, you can do that yourself.

    Dr. Robinson starts by showing how to set up JAWS with windows 11. She explains how to find and use the JAWS context menu by pinning it to the taskbar. To access it, use Windows + T and the right arrow key. She also advises switching JAWS to laptop mode, even if you’re on a desktop, to use both desktop and laptop commands. This makes JAWS more flexible.

    Next, Dr. Robinson talks about setting up voice profiles. She recommends creating different profiles for different tasks, like using a slower speed for reading and a faster speed for navigating. This helps make the screen reader more effective.

    The video also explains how to set up a Braille display. Dr. Robinson guides you on choosing and configuring the right Braille display. She also mentions the early adopter program, where you can enable MathCAT for advanced math work, ensuring it works well with JAWS in Microsoft Word.

    Adjusting Microsoft Word and Email Settings

    Word Settings to change option

    Dr. Robinson then moves on to Microsoft Word settings. She explains how to adjust autocorrect features to prevent automatic changes that might confuse the screen reader, especially in math. By disabling certain autocorrect options, you can make sure the screen reader reads everything accurately.

    Finally, Dr. Robinson shows how to set up Gmail with keyboard shortcuts and integrate it with Outlook. She gives clear steps on enabling IMAP and adjusting security settings. This setup allows you to manage your email smoothly using screen readers.

    This video is part two of a series on Windows 11 setup for efficacy for screen readers and all encompassing setup. By following these steps, you can make your computer easier and faster to navigate.

    Low Vision skills on Mouse Settings if you are Low Vision

    and walking through setup of computer as parent or guardian

  • Commands to Change Mouse Settings, Access Programs Fast, and Use Basic Word Font & Movement

    Using keyboard commands to quickly access and adjust mouse settings allows for efficient changes to mouse size and behavior, such as “Snap To” functions. These options are accessible through the Mouse Properties window in Windows, which you can open by pressing Windows + R and typing main.cpl. Once inside, you can navigate tabs and options using Ctrl + Tab and arrow keys, adjusting the mouse size or enabling the “Snap To” feature. This provides an easier and faster way to customize your mouse for improved accessibility and functionality.

    To quickly change mouse settings in Windows, use keyboard commands to access Mouse Properties: Another way

    1. Open Mouse Properties: Press Windows and type Mouse then press Enter.
    2. Tab to additional mouse options and enter
    3. Ctrl + Tab to Pointers and Change Mouse Size: arrow to inverted large or extra large based on need
    4. Navigate to the Pointer Options using Ctrl + Tab, then press Tab to “Snap To” or ALT + U to check box
    5. Then press Alt + S to check “Show location of pointer when I press the CTRL key.”
    6. Apply Changes: Press Alt + A to apply the settings and enter to close the window.
    Commands to change mouse
    Commands to change mouse

    These steps streamline navigation without relying on the mouse.

    Lessons on How to SEE your computer better as well as other Tech Lessons

  • Essential Word Keyboard Commands for Setting Defaults

    Essential WORD keyboard commands to help teachers who teach blind with talking software or sighted who just want to move faster. These are some of the most essential commands everyone should know, especially those mastering the essential commands for WORD keyboard users.

    Here’s a summary of essential WORD keyboard commands for video users.

     Keyboard shortcuts for all WORD versions.

    1. Open Word: Press Windows + 5 to start Word from the taskbar.
    2. Zoom In: Use Alt + V + Z to zoom to 200%.
    3. Change Defaults:
      • Open Paragraph Spacing: Press Alt + O + P.
      • Set Spacing to Single: Press Alt + P and change to single spacing.
      • Set Default for All Documents: Press Alt + D followed by Alt + A and then Enter.

    Customize Document further

    1. Change Font:
      • Select All Text: Press Ctrl + A.
      • Open Font Dialog: Press Ctrl + D.
      • Change Font to Times New Roman: Type “Times New Roman” and set size to 12.
      • Set Default for All Documents: Press Alt + D followed by Alt + A and then Enter.
    2. Create Columns:
      • Open Page Layout: Press Alt + P.
      • Select Columns: Press J for columns.
      • Set Number of Columns: Press Alt + O + C and choose the number of columns.
    3. Change Page Color:
      • Open Page Layout: Press Alt + P.
      • Open Colors: Press PC.
      • Select Color: Use arrow keys to choose a color and press Enter.
    4. Add Border:
      • Open Borders: Press Alt + O + B.

    These commands will help you efficiently navigate and customize documents. See other Setup options 

    windows page setup for defaults
    Essential WORD keyboard commands for windows page setup for defaults

    Other WORD Lessons

    Optimizing Windows 11 Efficiency for Screen Reader with Key Settings and Configurations

    WORD Efficient Text Navigation and Selection

    Basic WORD JAWS commands with Typing Trick

    Rebuild Microsoft Word Template when it is not working well

    Microsoft Word MLA format with Christopher Duffley

    WORD accessible food chain for class using talking software

    Commands to change mouse -access programs fast, basics in Word font & movement

    Excel line plot graph-copy to Word for Math

    Complete an excel graph and copy into Word document with screen reader

    Essential WORD keyboard commands for setting defaults

    Track changes in Word-How teachers make corrections in work

    Track Changes with Commands-inserting comments and editing work

  • Aira Navigation: How Blind Travelers Navigate Safely and Independently

    AIRA Navigation using Google Glasses

    Google Glass Options

    What they are:
    Lightweight smart glasses with a small display above the right eye. Originally released for consumers, now mostly used in enterprise and medical settings.

    Key features:

    • Small prism display
    • Voice-activated commands (“OK Google…”)
    • Camera (varies by model)
    • Touch pad on the right side
    • Designed for hands-free information access

    Vuzix Smart Glasses (Blade / M400 / Shield Series)

    What they are:
    A family of AR smart glasses built for industrial, medical, and field environments. Models vary in shape and display size.

    Key features:

    • Larger, brighter AR displays
    • Camera options up to 4K
    • Rugged designs for work environments
    • Voice, touch, and head-tracking controls
    • Works with Android-based apps

    Aira and Smart Glasses for Blind Navigation: Modern Tools for Safe, Independent Travel

    Whether you’ve been blind for years or you’re just beginning to lose vision, today’s tools offer more options than ever for navigating the world with confidence. Smart glasses and services like Aira give you access to real‑time visual information—indoors, outdoors, at work, on campus, or in everyday life. For some, it’s an exciting next step in expanding independence. For others, it’s a gentle bridge toward accepting support without feeling like they’re giving up who they are. Wherever you are on that journey, these tools can help you move safely, work more efficiently, and stay connected to the world around you.

    If you want, I can also craft a shorter version for a carousel cover slide or a more emotional version that speaks directly to the reader.

    Helping a Young Adult Losing Vision: When They’re Not Ready for the Cane… Yet

    Losing vision as a young adult is complicated. It’s not just about mobility—it’s about identity, pride, and the fear of being seen as “blind” before they’re ready to claim that word for themselves.

    Many young adults tell us:

    • “I don’t want people staring at me.”
    • “I’m not blind enough for a cane.”
    • “I can still get by if I try harder.”
    • “I don’t want to look different.”

    These feelings are real. They deserve respect, not pressure.

    But they also deserve safety, dignity, and access to the world.

    That’s where Aira can become a bridge—not a replacement for cane skills, not a long‑term solution, but a gentle first step toward accepting support.

    Why Aira Works for Someone Who Isn’t Ready for the Cane

    Aira gives visual information without announcing disability to the world.

    For a young adult who is still grieving vision loss, this matters.

    Aira lets them:

    • Move through a college campus without guessing at signs
    • Navigate stores, offices, or new environments without pretending
    • Read menus, labels, and screens without asking friends
    • Travel safely in unfamiliar places
    • Do their job or schoolwork without feeling exposed

    It’s discreet. Very private. It’s on their terms.

    And most importantly—it gives them a taste of what independence with support feels like.

    That experience often becomes the turning point.

    The Emotional Shift: From “I Don’t Want to Look Blind” to “I Deserve to Move Safely”

    When a young adult uses Aira, something powerful happens:

    They realize they don’t have to choose between:

    • Looking blind
      and
    • Being unsafe

    Aira shows them that support doesn’t take away independence—it protects it.

    Once they feel the relief of not guessing, not hiding, not pretending…
    they often become more open to the cane.

    Not because someone forced them.
    But because they finally understand:

    Independence isn’t about doing everything alone.
    It’s about having the right tools at the right time.

    Real Examples: A Young Adult Losing Vision Who Wants a Career in Film, Photography, or Other Visual Fields

    Let’s say this young adult has 20/200–20/400 vision or worse and dreams of photography, cinematography, or other highly visual careers that require sharp editing and image capture.

    They’re talented. They are creative. They’re determined.

    But they’re also scared of being seen as “blind.”

    Aira can help them:

    • Frame shots
    • Check lighting
    • Review images
    • Navigate sets
    • Identify equipment
    • Move safely in unfamiliar locations

    They get to keep their identity as a creator and keep their dignity.
    They get to keep their dreams alive.

    And slowly, gently, they begin to understand:

    Blindness doesn’t take away creativity.
    It just changes the tools.

    How We Bring Them Along—Without Shame, Pressure, or Fear

    Here’s the message we give young adults:

    “You don’t have to be ready for the cane today.
    But you do deserve to move safely today.
    Aira can help you do that while you figure out the rest.”

    We meet them where they are and honor their feelings.
    We give them a tool that supports them privately.
    And we let confidence do the rest.

    Because once they feel what safe, supported independence is like…
    the cane stops looking like a symbol of blindness
    and starts looking like a symbol of freedom.

    Real Example for all users with Airport Navigation and Traveling Using Aira

    Airports can be some of the most challenging environments for blind and low‑vision travelers—constant construction, changing layouts, crowded terminals, and signage that’s almost entirely visual. Aira gives travelers real‑time visual support from the moment they step out of the rideshare to the moment they reach their gate. And when paired with Aira’s own smart glasses—designed to look just like the everyday eyewear everyone else is wearing—travelers get discreet, hands‑free access to visual information without standing out or feeling different.

    In fact, the only way anyone would know a traveler is blind is if they’re using a cane. You can even call an Aira Agent while the plane is still on the runway so you’re fully set up to step off the aircraft and head confidently to your next gate with live guidance. Agents can help locate check‑in counters, identify the correct security line, read flight boards, navigate terminals, find restrooms or restaurants, and guide travelers through gate changes or last‑minute updates. Whether you’re a seasoned blind traveler or someone newly adjusting to vision loss, Aira adds a layer of confidence and clarity that makes airport travel smoother, safer, and far less stressful.

  • Stop Annoying Ding Sounds on Windows Fix Filter Keys & Toggle Keys

    accessibility options in windows i go to keyboard

    Windows + I to settings and find Accessibility on the far left column and open then open keyboard. If you want to stop annoying ding sounds on Windows, the following steps will help you do that.

    If your computer keeps chiming, dinging, or beeping at the worst possible moments, or when you press a particular key, you can silence or customize every system sound in just a few steps.

    If you like to follow a video through the steps, this will help: Stop Annoying Ding Sounds on Windows Fix Filter Keys & Toggle Keys

    In this video, you’ll learn:

    • How to check whether Filter Keys or Toggle Keys are turned on
    • How to turn them off if you don’t need them
    • How to adjust them properly if you do use them
    • How to prevent Windows from enabling them by mistake
    • How to silence or customize the sounds they make

    Commands & Navigation Steps

    Open Windows Accessibility Settings (Keyboard Section)

    • Windows + I → opens Settings
    • down arrow to Accessibility, press Enter, then tab down to Keyboard
    • or press windows (start menu) or using keyboard type Accessibility in the search box

    Check all these Features

    Turn Sticky Keys, Filter Keys, or Toggle Keys On/Off

    • Tab to the setting you want
    • Press Space bar to toggle it on or off

    Hear What Toggle Keys Sounds Like

    • Turn on Toggle Keys → Windows plays a beep when pressing Caps Lock, Num Lock, or Scroll Lock
    • Turn it off again → sound stops immediately

    Notification Preferences for Accessibility Keys

    Windows will play a sound when:

    • Sticky Keys is turned on
    • Filter Keys is turned on
    • Toggle Keys is turned on

    This helps you know when you’ve activated something by accident.

    On‑Screen Keyboard (for mouse users or one‑handed typing)

    • Turn on On‑screen keyboard in the Keyboard settings
    • Click keys with your mouse if typing is difficult

    Underline Access Keys

    • Turn on Underline access keys
    • This shows keyboard shortcuts even when you’re not holding Alt

    Print Screen Behavior (Updated in Windows 11)

    • While you are here adjust Print Screen
    • Arrow to Print Screen and enter → opens the Snipping Tool options at the top of the screen
    • Screen reader users:
      • Tab through options
      • Go to the last one
      • Press Spacebar, then Down Arrow to choose screenshot type-then you have options

    When you cannot do something: Take a Screenshot & Send It to your help person

    • Take screenshot- which literally is copy
    • Press Ctrl + V to paste into an email
    • Send to your tech instructor or support person

    Whether you’re troubleshooting your own device or helping someone else, this quick fix will bring instant peace and quiet — and give you full control over your keyboard behavior.

  • How Blind People Drop a Pin to Share Location on iPhone

    Man taps share my location on phone
    How Blind People Drop a Pin to Share: A blind man waits outside a building with his long white cane leaning against his shoulder while he taps his phone to share his location.

    Share Your Location Using Siri and VoiceOver

    Blind people can stay safer and more independent by learning how to share their location quickly using Siri and VoiceOver. If you want to know how blind people drop a pin to share location, the iPhone offers simple tools that allow blind users to contact trusted people, send their exact location, and request help with only a few commands. These steps explain how to set up location sharing, how to flick and navigate with VoiceOver, and how to share your location anytime support is needed.

    Step 1: Add a Trusted Contact

    A trusted contact can be a parent, partner, caregiver, or friend.

    Open Contacts

    Say, “Hey Siri, open Contacts.”

    Add the contact

    1. Touch the middle of the screen to find the list.
    2. Flick right until VoiceOver says “Add Contact.”
    3. Double-tap to open it.
    4. Enter the person’s name.
    5. Flick right to the phone number field.
    6. Double-tap and enter the number.
    7. Flick right until you hear “Done.”
    8. Double-tap to save.

    This contact becomes the person you can share your location with anytime.

    Step 2: How Blind People Drop a Pin to Share and Turn On ‘Share My Location’

    Location sharing must be activated before Siri can send your location.

    Open Settings

    Say, “Hey Siri, open Settings.”

    Open your Apple ID

    1. Touch the top of the screen.
    2. VoiceOver speaks the user’s name.
    3. Double-tap.

    Open Find My

    1. Flick right slowly until you hear “Find My.”
    2. Double-tap to open it.

    Enable location sharing

    1. Flick right until you hear “Share My Location.”
    2. Double-tap to turn it on.

    Your iPhone can now send your live location when requested.

    Step 3: How blind people Share Location With a Trusted Person Permanently

    Open Messages

    Say, “Hey Siri, open Messages.”

    Open the trusted person’s conversation

    1. Touch the center of the screen.
    2. Flick right until you hear their name.
    3. Double-tap.

    Open contact details

    1. Touch the upper right corner.
    2. Flick right until VoiceOver says “Info” or “Details.”
    3. Double-tap.

    Share permanently

    1. Flick right until you hear “Share My Location.”
    2. Double-tap.
    3. Flick right to “Share Indefinitely.”
    4. Double-tap.

    Your trusted person now sees your location anytime you choose to share it.

    Step 4: How Blind People Drop a Pin to Share Your Location Quickly Using Siri

    This is the fastest and safest method.

    Say:
    “Hey Siri, share my location with Mom.”
    (or the name of your trusted contact)

    Siri sends your exact GPS location through Messages.
    VoiceOver confirms the action.

    This works indoors and outdoors.

    Step 5: Share Your Location Manually in Messages

    Open Messages

    Say, “Open Messages.”

    Send location

    1. Open the trusted person’s conversation.
    2. Flick right until you hear “Send My Current Location.”
    3. Double-tap.
    4. VoiceOver confirms the message.

    This is helpful when you prefer not to dictate aloud.

    Step 6: When Blind People Should Share Their Location

    Location sharing helps when you:

    • Feel lost
    • Feel unsafe
    • Need help quickly
    • Need a ride
    • Experience a sudden change in plans
    • Want a trusted person to monitor your travel safely

    This step protects blind travelers and supports independence in public places.

    Step 7: A Simple Safety Script to Teach

    Blind users can use this script anytime they need help:

    1. Stop walking.
    2. Hold your phone securely.
    3. Face a quiet direction.
    4. Say, “Hey Siri, share my location with Mom.”
    5. Wait for VoiceOver to confirm.
    6. Stay where you are until help arrives.

    This gives blind travelers control during stressful or uncertain situations.

    Why This Skill Matter

    Location sharing supports blind people in daily travel.
    It strengthens communication and confidence.
    – helps families and caregivers respond quickly in emergencies.
    It enhances safety without reducing independence.
    – empowers blind users to manage real-world travel with greater security.

    Video Lessons on all blind skills at YouTube

    More Access Tech

  • Fix and Speed Up Windows Computer in Minutes

    woman sitting at computer smiling as it is fixed and fast
    Fixed and Cleaned up Computer for Speed

    Computer acting up, freezing up, slowing down, moving like a snail so you have to walk away (before you do something you will regret to it)?
    Browser freezing?
    Apps slowing down or refusing to open?

    Network working like a snail?

    These issues affect every Windows user — teachers, professionals, students, and anyone trying to get work done. The good news is that many of the most common problems can be fixed quickly with a few simple steps.

    Here are essential Windows fixes every user should know:

    1️. When your browser freezes

    • Press Ctrl + R or F5 to refresh the page.
    • If a site should be loading but isn’t, use a force refresh: Ctrl + Shift + R.
      This clears cached elements and forces the browser to reload everything.

    2️. Speed up your computer by managing startup apps

    • Open Task Manager instantly with Ctrl + Windows + Escape.
    • Press Ctrl + Tab to move to Startup Apps.
    • Right‑click any program you don’t need at startup and choose Disable.

    This doesn’t remove or break anything — it simply gives you control over what opens and when. Most computers are slowed down by unnecessary bloatware launching automatically. If you do not disable what you do not need it is slow to start up and remains slow because those programs are ALWAYS running in the background whether you know or not. Most do not hence the slow speed of your computer.

    3️. Uninstall programs you don’t use

    • Press Windows and type in remove a which will take you to add remove programs
    • Arrow down through all programs and uninstall what you do not need or use. Picture yourself weighing 500 pounds and you are taking off 50 pounds at a time with each remove. You get lighter, you move faster.
    • With commands, Find programs you no longer need, press Tab once to reach the three dots, then select Uninstall.

    Removing unused software frees space, reduces background activity, and improves overall performance.

    4️. Fix sound issues quickly

    • Press Windows + I to open Settings.
    • Type Sound and open Sound Settings.
    • Check each device (input and output) and adjust as needed.
    • Go through all options and adjust it to fit your needs.

    This solves many audio problems without needing a full restart.

    5️. Clear your Temp folder daily to improve speed

    • Press Windows + R to open the Run box.
    • Type %temp% and press Enter.
    • Press Ctrl + A to select everything.
    • Press Shift + Delete to permanently remove the files.
    • When prompted, enter on Yes, and another box opens, check the box that says do this for all (or ctrl A) , and press Alt + S to skip files currently in use.

    Clearing this folder removes clutter and can even improve your internet speed by eliminating old cached data.

    Clean Out System Garbage with Disk Cleanup

    Next, press your Windows key and type disk.
    You’ll see Disk Cleanup populate — press Enter to open it.

    Once it opens, press Enter again to scan your system.
    This reveals all the garbage that’s quietly collected on your computer.

    Now Tab to or click on “Clean up system files.”
    Press Enter — and be patient. If you’ve never done this before, it may take a while to populate.

    When the box opens, select everything you can see.
    You’ll notice gigabytes of waste clogging your system — old logs, temp files, update leftovers, and more.

    Delete it all.
    One caveat: don’t delete your Downloads folder from here.
    Instead, go to Downloads manually and clean it out one item at a time.
    You may still need backups or haven’t saved things to proper folders yet.

    These steps help all users, and they’re especially important for blind and visually impaired individuals who rely on consistent system behavior with JAWS or NVDA.

    A few quick fixes can save time, reduce frustration, and keep your computer running the way it should.

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