iPhone-Setting Up Email Using Siri & Voice Over-sending a text
Phase 1-Setup Email
Goal
Student independently adds an email account and verifies it works. This guide covers iPhone-Setting Up Email Using Siri & VoiceOver to simplify the process for users who need accessibility support.
Step 1: Open Settings with Siri
Press and hold the Side button. Or Say “Hey Siri” if set up
Say:
“Open Settings.”
VoiceOver will say “Settings.”
Double-tap if needed.
Step 2: Navigate to Mail
• Flick right until you hear “Mail” • Double-tap
Inside Mail:
• Flick right to “Accounts” • Double-tap
Step 3: Add Account
• Flick right to “Add Account” • Double-tap
Choose account type:
iCloud
Google
Outlook
Yahoo
Other
Flick to correct provider. Double-tap.
Step 4: Enter Email Information
You will land in a text field.
To type:
• Double-tap in field • Dictate email address OR • Type using keyboard
Move to next field:
• Flick right
Enter password carefully. VoiceOver will say “Secure text field.”
After entering:
• Flick right to “Next” • Double-tap
Step 5: Verify Mail is Turned On
After account connects:
Make sure “Mail” toggle is ON.
Flick to it. Double-tap if needed.
Then flick right to “Save.” Double-tap.
Email is now active.
Phase 2 – Open and Use Mail
Now the student can begin using Mail.
Activate Siri:
“Open Mail.”
Proceed with:
• Flick right to inbox • Double-tap to open messages • Reply and send
Important Teaching Notes
Teach these concepts early:
✔ Every text field requires a double-tap before typing ✔ Listen fully before moving ✔ Flick slowly and intentionally ✔ Passwords must be entered accurately
If login fails:
• Recheck password • Ensure Wi-Fi is connected • Use Siri to say “Turn Wi-Fi on” if needed
Skill Check
Student should be able to:
Open Settings with Siri
Add an email account
Open Mail
Read one message
Send one reply
You are building digital independence.
Phase 3
Setting Up and Using Email with Siri & VoiceOver
Goal:
Student can open Mail, read messages, and send a simple email independently.
Step 1: Open the Mail App
Activate Siri: Hold the Side button or say:
“Hey Siri, open Mail.”
VoiceOver will announce: “Mail.”
Double-tap if needed.
Step 2: Navigate Inbox
• Flick right to move through emails • VoiceOver reads sender and subject • Double-tap to open
Teach: Listen fully before moving.
Step 3: Read Email
• Flick right to move line by line • Use rotor to change reading level
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)
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
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
Taskbar setting for Windows 11 setup
Efficiency for Screen Readers and other Setup Skills
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.
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
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.
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
Open Mouse Properties: Press Windows and type Mouse then press Enter.
Tab to additional mouse options and enter
Ctrl + Tab to Pointers and Change Mouse Size: arrow to inverted large or extra large based on need
Navigate to the Pointer Options using Ctrl + Tab, then press Tab to “Snap To” or ALT + U to check box
Then press Alt + S to check “Show location of pointer when I press the CTRL key.”
Apply Changes: Press Alt + A to apply the settings and enter to close the window.
Commands to change mouse
These steps streamline navigation without relying on the mouse.
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.
Open Word: Press Windows + 5 to start Word from the taskbar.
Zoom In: Use Alt + V + Z to zoom to 200%.
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
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.
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.
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.
Add Border:
Open Borders: Press Alt + O + B.
These commands will help you efficiently navigate and customize documents. See other Setup options
Essential WORD keyboard commands for windows page setup for defaults
The new Title II rule applies directly to all state and local government entities — which includes public K–12 schools, public colleges, and public universities.
Private schools are not automatically covered under Title II. But that does not mean they are exempt from accessibility requirements.
Here’s the real picture
1. Private Schools Are Covered Under ADA Title III (Not Title II)
Private schools — including:
Private K–12 schools
Private colleges
Private universities
Religious schools (with some exceptions)
are covered under ADA Title III, which prohibits discrimination by “places of public accommodation.”
Education is explicitly listed as a public accommodation.
This means private schools must still provide equal access, including digital access.
2. Title III Does Not Name WCAG 2.1 AA — But Courts and DOJ Use It Anyway
Even though Title III doesn’t name a specific standard, the DOJ and federal courts have repeatedly used WCAG as the benchmark for accessibility.
And now that the DOJ has formally adopted WCAG 2.1 AA for public entities, it becomes the default expectation for private schools too.
In practice:
If a private school’s website, LMS, or digital content is inaccessible, they can still be found in violation of the ADA.
3. Private Schools Can Still Face:
DOJ investigations
OCR complaints (if they receive federal funds)
Lawsuits under ADA Title III
Section 504 complaints (if they receive federal funds)
Court‑ordered remediation
Damages and attorney’s fees
Private schools are sued for digital inaccessibility every year, and the new Title II rule strengthens the legal argument families can use.
4. Private Schools That Receive Federal Funding Must Follow Section 504
If a private school receives any federal funding — even a single program — they must comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which requires:
Equal access
Non‑discrimination
Accessible digital content
This includes:
Private schools with lunch programs
Private schools receiving IDEA funds
Private colleges receiving federal student aid
Private schools receiving grants
Section 504 is powerful — and enforceable.
5. Private Schools Are Already Feeling Pressure to Match Public School Standards
Here’s the part families will care about:
Private schools cannot fall behind public schools.
If public schools must meet WCAG 2.1 AA:
Parents will expect the same from private schools
Students will demand equal access
Lawsuits will reference the new rule
Vendors will shift to WCAG 2.1 AA
Accreditation bodies will begin asking questions
Private schools that ignore accessibility will lose:
Students
Reputation
Competitive standing
6. What This Means for Families in Private Schools
Your child has the right to:
Accessible digital content
Accessible websites
Accessible apps
Accessible videos
Accessible documents
Accessible learning platforms
Equal participation
Real‑time access
Even in a private school.
And now, with the new Title II rule setting a national standard, families have more leverage than ever to demand accessibility.
7. What This Means for Private School Teachers and Administrators
Private schools must now:
Train staff in accessible digital design
Ensure LMS platforms are accessible
Fix inaccessible PDFs and documents
Caption and describe videos
Ensure apps and websites work with assistive technology
Provide accessible materials in real time
Even though Title II doesn’t apply directly, the expectations and legal pressure absolutely do.
Bottom Line: Private Schools Are Not Exempt From Accessibility
They may not fall under Title II, but they are still bound by:
ADA Title III- https://www.accessibility.works/blog/higher-ed-ada-compliance-requirements-road-map/
Section 504 (if federally funded)
Civil rights laws
Court precedent
DOJ enforcement
Parent advocacy
Market pressure
And now that WCAG 2.1 AA is the national standard for public education, private schools will be expected — and pushed — to meet it too.
Google Drive Keyboard shortcuts become much easier — and faster — when you know the right screen reader keyboard commands. In this TechVision tutorial, I walk you through how JAWS and NVDA users can move through folders, open files, switch views, and manage Drive content without ever touching a mouse.
These skills build confidence, speed, and independence for blind and low‑vision users, students learning digital literacy, and anyone who prefers keyboard‑based navigation. You’ll learn how to open menus, jump between items, select files, search your Drive, and access settings with predictable, repeatable commands.
Whether you’re organizing schoolwork, managing shared folders, or teaching students how to work in the cloud, these shortcuts make Google Drive more accessible and efficient for everyone.
TechVision: Empowering real‑life tech skills with clarity, accessibility, and confidence.
Struggling to find your drives or open File Explorer quickly? Adding the This PC icon to your desktop is one of the fastest ways to navigate Windows — especially for beginners, blind/low‑vision users, and anyone building confidence with their computer.
In this quick TechVision tutorial, I show you how to turn on desktop icons, place This PC right where you need it, and get instant access to your drives, folders, and storage. A simple change that makes a big difference in independence and efficiency.
Whether you’re teaching students, supporting a family member, or learning for yourself, this step gives you a clean, predictable starting point every time you sit down at the computer.
TechVision: Building real‑life tech skills with clarity, confidence, and accessibility at the center.
The Hidden Setting Causing the Problem of Microsoft Edge Switching Accounts
Microsoft Edge includes a feature called Automatic Profile Switching. It’s designed to “help” by choosing the profile it thinks matches the website you’re visiting.
In reality, it often does the opposite—forcing you back into the first account ever used on the device.
To quickly change profiles: Ctrl+Shift+M
How to turn it off
Open Microsoft Edge
Go to Settings
Select Profiles
Click or Tab to profile preferences
Turn OFF: Automatic sign in on Edge and Tab and turn off Allow single sign-on..
Once this is off, Edge will finally stop overriding your login and let you choose the account you actually want.
What If You Want Both Accounts to Share the Same Information?
This is the part that confuses most persons.
Turning off automatic switching stops Edge from forcing the wrong account, but it does not merge or sync data between accounts. Microsoft does not allow two accounts to share:
bookmarks
passwords
OneDrive files
emails
sync history
app licenses
school‑managed content
So the person must decide what they actually want:
Option 1 — Keep the Accounts Separate (Recommended for Most Persons)
This is the cleanest, safest setup.
Do this if the person wants:
A school or work account and a personal account
No mixing of data
No login conflicts
A simple way to choose which account to use
How to set it up:
Create two separate Edge profiles
Turn OFF automatic profile switching
Turn ON sync only for the primary profile they use daily
Keep both profiles visible in the top‑right corner: Ctrl+Shift+M allows for fast switching so tab to other profile and enter
This keeps everything organized and prevents school-work restrictions from spilling into personal life.
Option 2 — Move Data From One Account Into the Other
If the person wants “everything in one place,” they must choose a primary account and manually move what’s movable.
What can be moved:
Bookmarks → export from one profile, import into the other
Passwords → export/import through Edge Password Manager
Files → manually move from OneDrive A to OneDrive B
Emails → forward or export/import
What cannot be merged:
Sync history
School‑managed settings
Microsoft Store purchases
Xbox/Game Pass data
Anything tied to an organizational account
This is more work and not always advisable for persons on school or work‑managed devices.
How to Help a Person Decide
Here’s the exact question to ask:
“Do you want your accounts to stay separate, or do you want everything from your school-work account to move into your personal account?” Typically you do not.
Once they answer, the path is clear.
TechVision Bottom Line
If Edge keeps logging you into the wrong account, it’s not you—it’s the browser. Turn off Automatic Profile Switching, and the problem disappears instantly.
If you use two accounts, keep them separate with two profiles. If you want everything in one place, choose a primary account and migrate what you can.
The iPhone is the most powerful accessibility tool available to blind and low‑vision students today. With the right skills, it becomes a map, a magnifier, a reader, a communication device, a travel tool, and a pathway to independence.
This guide gives students, parents, teachers, and O&M instructors everything needed to build real-world iPhone skills from basic Siri commands and VoiceOver gestures to advanced navigation and daily-living tools. Use it as a curriculum, a quick reference, or a step-by-step learning path.
A TechVision Core Resource
The iPhone gives blind and low-vision students real independence. With the right skills, it becomes a map, a reader, a magnifier, a travel tool, and a partner for daily life. This guide helps students, parents, and teachers build strong iPhone skills one clear step at a time.
Lessons- follow these steps
1. Getting Started
The guide begins with simple setup steps that build confidence fast.
Accessibility Shortcut–You can press home button at any time and just say: “Siri open Accessibility” or wherever you need to go for what you need to do
Where to find it: Settings → Accessibility → Accessibility Shortcut Students turn features on and off with a quick triple-click.
Key tasks:
Set VoiceOver, Zoom, or Magnifier
Set up Siri for hands-free support
Add emergency contacts
Customize Control Center
Organize the Home Screen
Core Access Features
VoiceOver
Zoom
Magnifier
Display and text adjustments
First Skills to Teach
Turn VoiceOver on or off
Learn basic gestures
Use Siri for fast tasks
Adjust speech rate
Open and close apps
2. VoiceOver Skills
Students grow from simple gestures to full digital literacy.
Beginner
Where to find it: Settings → Accessibility → VoiceOver
Explore the screen
Activate items
Use basic Rotor options
Start typing with VoiceOver
Intermediate
Edit text
Use the App Switcher
Navigate long pages
Move by headings or links
Use dictation
Advanced
Where to find it: Settings → Accessibility → VoiceOver → Activities / Braille / Rotor Actions
Customize the Rotor
Use Activity profiles
Use Braille Screen Input
Work in complex apps
3. Navigation & O&M with iPhone
Orientation Tools
Look Around-outside navigation
Compass
Landmarks
Spatial audio
Seeing AI
Clew-inside navigation Where to find them: Maps and Compass apps
Dropping Pins
Drop a pin with VoiceOver: Maps → Current Location → Rotor → Drop Pin
Drop a pin with Siri: “Drop a pin.”
Label and save locations
Add Favorites
Create walking routes
Real-World Travel Skills
Walking directions
Bus stop navigation
Checking surroundings
Soundscape-style apps
Safe campus routines
Safety Tools
Where to find them: Settings → Emergency SOS, Find My, Messages
Emergency SOS
Location sharing
Device tracking
Safe communication practices
4. Apps for Daily Living
Vision Support Apps
Where to find them: App Store
Seeing AI
Be My Eyes
Envision
Magnifier
Productivity Tools
Reminders
Calendar
Notes
Shortcuts
Timer and alarms
School & Work
Files
Email
Safari
Reading apps
Document scanning
5. Low Vision Tools & Strategies
Visual Settings
Where to find them: Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size
Contrast
Bold text
Reduce transparency
Color filters
Invert colors
Magnification Tools
Where to find them: Settings → Accessibility → Zoom Control Center → Magnifier
Zoom
Magnifier
Camera zoom
Flashlight for clarity
Reduce Fatigue
When to switch from Zoom to VoiceOver
When audio improves endurance
How stands and holders help
6. Parent Guide
Parents help skills grow through simple routines.
Focus areas:
What to teach at each age
How to practice safely
How to reduce frustration
When to add new apps
How to build daily habits
Where to find key tools: Settings → Screen Time, Settings → Emergency SOS
7. Teacher Guide
Teachers integrate iPhone skills into daily instruction.
Teach VoiceOver
Skill progression
Gesture modeling
Rotor instruction
Text-editing practice
Then Navigation
Classroom → hallway → campus
Pinning school locations
Safe movement routines
Teach Organization
Where to find it: Press and hold any app → Edit Home Screen
Folder creation
Notifications
Calendar and reminders
Assessment
Define mastery
Measure progress
Write goals and objectives
8. Learning Paths
Beginner Path
Activate Accessibility Shortcut
Learn basic gestures
Practice the Rotor
Use Siri for quick tasks
Drop a first pin
Intermediate Path
Edit text
Navigate long pages
Use Maps
Use Seeing AI
Organize the Home Screen
Advanced Path
Braille Screen Input
Custom Rotor
Advanced Maps skills
Shortcuts automation
Real-world travel practice
9. Lesson Index
This section lists all iPhone lessons. Each item includes:
A clear title
A short description
A consistent layout
This turns the page into a complete curriculum hub.
20/70 Vision Looking at whiteboard 20 feet ahead in a room
Overview
Many people wonder, What Does 20/70 Vision Look Like in everyday life? 20/70 vision means a person must stand 20 feet away to see what someone with typical 20/20 vision can see at 70 feet. It represents moderate low vision and often affects reading, recognizing faces, and seeing details at a distance — especially in classrooms, hallways, and outdoor environments.
This page gives you:
A simple explanation
Real‑world examples
Functional impact
Classroom implications
Technology supports
A visual simulation (we’ll add images next)
Simple Definition
20/70 vision is a measurement of visual acuity, describing how clearly a person sees detail.
20 = the testing distance
70 = the distance at which a person with 20/20 vision sees the same detail
So:
If a student with 20/20 vision can read a sign at 70 feet, a student with 20/70 vision must move to 20 feet to see it.
What 20/70 Vision Looks Like in Daily Life
People with 20/70 vision often describe:
Blurry details at a distance
Difficulty reading small print
Needing to move closer to see faces clearly
Trouble with classroom boards or projectors
Missing fine details in worksheets or diagrams
Needing brighter lighting to see comfortably
They can usually navigate independently but may struggle with:
Set Up iPhone Security with VoiceOver using Face ID
Goal
Student independently sets up device security and understands how to authenticate downloads. This lesson will help you Set Up iPhone Security with VoiceOver for a more accessible and safe experience.
PART 1: Set Up a Passcode (Must Be Done First before you can acquire apps)
Face ID and Touch ID require a passcode.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press and hold Side button.
Say:
“Open Settings.”
Step 2: Go to Face ID & Passcode
(Or Touch ID & Passcode on older phones)
• Flick right until you hear: “Face ID & Passcode” • Double-tap.
If it says “Turn Passcode On,” double-tap.
Step 3: Create a Passcode
You will hear:
“Enter a six-digit passcode.”
• Double-tap each number OR • Use braille display if connected
Enter code twice.
Choose a code the student can remember but others cannot guess.
Teach: Do not use birthdays.
Passcode is now active.
PART 2: Set Up Face ID (Newer Phones)
Step 1: In Face ID & Passcode Menu
• Flick right to “Set Up Face ID” • Double-tap.
VoiceOver will guide.
Step 2: Position Face
If by yourself, place phone on your forehead then move straight back
Using VoiceOver to Learn What You Can Do in an App-using rotor action
Lesson:
Objective
Learners will understand how to use VoiceOver’s built‑in help features — including the four‑finger double‑tap — to explore gestures, discover available actions, and learn what options exist inside any app.
1. What the Four‑Finger Double‑Tap Does
VoiceOver Help Mode
A four‑finger double‑tap turns VoiceOver Help on or off.
When Help Mode is ON:
VoiceOver explains every gesture you perform
Nothing on the screen activates
It is a safe space to practice
You can explore without fear of opening apps or changing settings
To exit Help Mode, simply four‑finger double‑tap again.
This gesture does not give information about the app itself — it teaches VoiceOver gestures.
2. How to Learn What You Can Do in an App
VoiceOver offers several ways to discover menus, actions, and options inside any app.
A. Explore by Touch
Gently lay finger on screen and Move your finger around the screen-top left to right and down
VoiceOver announces buttons, tabs, menus, and controls
This helps you build a mental map of the app layout
The Rotor is a powerful tool for discovering what’s possible.
To use it:
Place two fingers on the screen with 1 hand to “turn knob”; or some find it easier with pointer finger from each hand mimicking a circle
Twist like turning a dial
Stop when you hear Actions, More Options, or similar choices
Swipe up or down to explore available actions
Common rotor actions include:
“More Info”
“Details”
“Menu”
“Help”
“Show Options”
“Edit”
“Delete”
“Open Settings”
This is often where apps hide extra features.
You can add features in Settings just ask Siri to “open Accessibility and flick to Voice Over and when you open-pay attention to every detail her then open rotor settings”
C. Turn On VoiceOver Hints
Hints tell the learner what they can do on each item.
To enable:
Settings → Accessibility → VoiceOver → Hints
When hints are on, VoiceOver may say:
“Double‑tap to activate.”
“Swipe up or down to adjust.”
“Double‑tap and hold to open menu.”
Hints help learners understand available actions without guessing.
D. Look for App‑Specific Help or Menus
Many apps include:
A Help button
A Menu or More tab
A Settings area
VoiceOver will announce these when the learner explores the screen.
3. Practice Activity Steps
Have the learner:
1 — Enter Help Mode
Perform a four‑finger double‑tap
Try gestures: flicks, taps, rotor turns
Listen to VoiceOver explain each one
2 — Explore an App
Touch around the screen to hear what’s available
Find tabs, buttons, and menus
3 — Use the Rotor
Turn the rotor to Actions
Swipe up/down to hear what actions are available
4 — Turn on Hints
Listen for instructions VoiceOver provides
4. Key Takeaways
Four‑finger double‑tap = VoiceOver Help Mode, not app information
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.
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.
Audience: Blind or low‑vision students (middle school through adult) Skills: Indoor navigation, spatial awareness, cane + tech integration Tools Needed: iPhone with Clew installed, long cane, safe indoor route
Blind Users Retrace Indoor Routes with Clew
Lesson: Learning to Use Clew for Indoor Route Retracing
Lesson Overview
Clew is a free iPhone app that helps you retrace a route indoors. You walk a path once, and Clew guides you back along that same path using sound, vibration, and spoken cues.
Clew does not use maps, GPS, Wi‑Fi, or beacons. It works in any building because it relies on the path you walked.
Your cane provides safety and obstacle detection. Clew provides directional alignment.
Together, they support confident indoor travel.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to:
Download and open the Clew app
Allow necessary permissions
Hold the phone correctly for AR tracking
Record a route independently
Retrace the route using Clew’s cues
Use cane skills throughout the process
Explain what Clew can and cannot do
Step 1 — Download the Clew App
Open the App Store
Tap Search
Type “Clew”
Select the app named Clew
Tap Get
Open the app once it installs
Note: Clew is iPhone‑only.
Step 2 — Allow Camera Access
When Clew opens for the first time, it will ask for permission to use the camera.
Tell the student:
“Clew uses the camera to track your movement. It does not record video — it only uses the camera to understand the path you walk.”
Tap Allow.
Step 3 — Phone Positioning
Before recording a route, teach the student to hold the phone:
upright
at chest height
camera facing forward
steady, not swinging
This is essential for Clew’s AR tracking.
Cue: “Cane leads. Phone observes.”
Step 4 — Record a Route
Choose a simple, safe route such as:
hallway → classroom
classroom → office
seat → door
Have the student:
Open Clew
Tap Record Route
Walk the path using solid cane skills
Stop recording at the destination
Reinforce:
“Your cane tells you what’s on the ground.”
“Clew is only tracking the path — it does not detect obstacles.”
Step 5 — Retrace the Route
Now guide the student through returning to the starting point.
Tap Return to Start
Follow Clew’s cues:
Haptic taps for turns
Audio beeps for alignment
Voice prompts for direction
Encourage the student to:
Pause if unsure
Re‑center the phone
Sweep with the cane
Continue when aligned
Step 6 — Troubleshooting Practice
Teach the student what to do if:
Clew says “You’re off route”
Stop
Re‑center the phone
Sweep with the cane
Slowly adjust direction
The phone tilts
Bring it back to upright
Keep it steady
The student drifts
Use the cane to find the wall or landmark
Realign with Clew’s cues
Step 7 — Reflection and Understanding
Ask the student:
“What did Clew help you do?”
“What did your cane tell you that Clew didn’t?”
“When would Clew be useful in your school or home?”
This builds independence and decision‑making.
What Clew CAN Do
Retrace a route you walked
Guide you back with sound, vibration, and voice
Work in any building
Handle multiple turns
Support spatial memory
Help you return to a seat, office, or classroom
What Clew CANNOT Do
It cannot guide you to a new destination
It cannot save routes after the app closes
It cannot detect obstacles
It cannot replace cane skills
It does not use maps
Student‑friendly explanation: “Clew doesn’t know the building. It only knows the path you walked.”
Assessment Checklist
The student can:
Download and open Clew
Hold the phone correctly
Record a route independently
Retrace the route safely
Interpret Clew’s cues
Use cane skills throughout
Explain Clew’s limitations
Identify real‑life situations where Clew is helpful
Teacher Notes
Clew is a reverse‑route tool, not a navigation system
At this time, there is no fully reliable indoor navigation app that works in all buildings without special equipment such as QR codes, Bluetooth beacons, or professional indoor mapping. GPS does not function accurately indoors, and current mobile apps cannot provide turn‑by‑turn indoor directions. Indoor Navigation for Blind Users remains a significant technical challenge due to these limitations.
However, Seeing AI is the closest tool we have for indoor orientation that you can use immediately. It can describe rooms, identify doors, read signs, and recognize objects. When combined with strong cane skills, Seeing AI gives blind travelers meaningful visual feedback that supports safe and confident movement inside any home, school, or building. AND most importantly, can use anywhere and immediately.
Lesson: Indoor Navigation for Blind Users Using Seeing AI – (iPhone)
Skills: Indoor navigation, route following, spatial awareness, tech + cane integration Tools: iPhone with Seeing AI, long cane, school hallway or building
Lesson: Indoor Orientation Using Seeing AI
What it CAN do, what it CANNOT do, and how blind travelers can use it safely and effectively.
Strong cane travel skills are the foundation of safe and independent mobility. Great cane training will always take you where you need to go. Seeing AI can add helpful information about the environment, but it is the cane that provides the reliable, real‑time feedback a blind traveler depends on.
Skills: Indoor orientation, environmental awareness, object identification, sign reading, cane + tech integration Tools: iPhone with Seeing AI, long cane, any indoor environment
Lesson Overview
Seeing AI is not an indoor navigation app. It does not map buildings, create routes, or give turn‑by‑turn directions.
But it is the most powerful indoor visual feedback tool available today for blind travelers — and when paired with strong cane skills, it becomes a reliable way to:
identify rooms
confirm locations
understand layout
detect doors and openings
recognize objects
read signs
build mental maps
This lesson teaches students how to use Seeing AI as an indoor orientation partner, not a navigation system.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to:
Use Seeing AI to identify doors, signs, and room numbers
Use the World and Scene channels to understand layout
Use Short Text to read labels, signs, and posted information
Use object recognition to identify furniture and landmarks
Combine cane skills + Seeing AI feedback to move safely
Understand the limits of Seeing AI indoors
Use Seeing AI as a supplement, not a replacement, for O&M skills
What Seeing AI CAN Do Indoors
Describe what the camera sees
furniture
doors
hallways
people
objects
appliances
stairs
obstacles
Read signs and room numbers
classroom numbers
office signs
restroom labels
posted instructions
bulletin boards
✔ Identify objects and landmarks
tables
chairs
vending machines
water fountains
cabinets
shelves
✔ Help build a mental map
By scanning left, right, and ahead, the student can understand:
where openings are
where walls are
where intersections are
where furniture is located
✔ Confirm they’ve reached the correct room
Short Text + Scene = “Yes, this is Room 214.”
✔ Support safe indoor travel when paired with cane skills
Seeing AI gives visual information. The cane gives tactile information. Together, they create a complete picture.
What Seeing AI CANNOT Do Indoors
❌ It cannot navigate
turn‑by‑turn directions or indoor routes. Nor give hallway guidance.
❌ It cannot map a building
No saved indoor locations, or indoor POIs. No floor detection.
❌ It cannot guide you back to a room
Markers and audio beacons are GPS‑based and only work outdoors.
❌ It cannot detect exact indoor positions
GPS accuracy indoors is too poor.
❌ It cannot replace cane skills
It supplements orientation — it does not provide mobility.
“Seeing AI helps you understand what’s around you indoors. It can describe rooms, read signs, and identify objects. It cannot guide you like a GPS, but it gives visual information that supports your cane skills.”
Explore the World Channel
Explore
hold the phone at chest level
slowly scan left to right
listen to descriptions
Listen for:
“What openings do you hear?”
“What objects are in front of you?”
“What does it say about the hallway?”
Identify Doors and Openings
Use the camera to:
find doorways
detect open vs closed doors
identify intersections
confirm hallway direction
Think about:
“Where is the door located?”
“Is it open or closed?”
“What does your cane confirm?”
Read Room Numbers and Signs
Switch to Short Text.
Now
locate room numbers which should have braille
read office signs
read restroom labels
read posted instructions
This builds literacy + orientation.
Object Identification
Use the Describe to identify:
tables
chairs
cabinets
appliances
vending machines
water fountains
anything
Think about
“What object did it identify?”
“How does that help you understand the space?”
Build a Mental Map
Walk a hallway or room.
scan ahead
scan left
scan right
use cane to confirm
describe the layout
Then combine:
visual feedback
tactile feedback
spatial reasoning
Reflection
“What did Seeing AI help you understand?”
“What did your cane tell you that Seeing AI didn’t?”
“How did the two work together?”
“What can Seeing AI NOT do indoors?”
This reinforces realistic expectations.
If you are teaching this here is an Assessment Checklist
Student demonstrates mastery when they can:
Identify doors and openings using Seeing AI
Read room numbers and signs
Identify objects and landmarks
Build a mental map of a hallway or room
Use Seeing AI + cane skills together
Explain what Seeing AI cannot do indoors
Teacher Notes
Seeing AI is the best indoor orientation tool available today
It is NOT indoor navigation
It gives visual information, not directions
It works in any building
It supports independence when paired with cane skills
Indoor Navigation for Blind Travelers Using iPhone Apps
Using Siri • VoiceOver • Compass • Seeing AI • O&M Skills: 3 & 4 of 9 Lessons
Use Dropped Pins to Navigate Inside Building
Use Seeing AI and Landmarks to Navigate Inside Buildings
Navigating indoors with an iPhone becomes a powerful skill when blind travelers learn to use Seeing AI, environmental landmarks, and directional awareness. This lesson builds on foundational mobility techniques by teaching students to identify key locations—such as bathrooms, offices, and exits—using visual recognition, text reading, and object identification. Students then use VoiceOver cues, Compass alignment, and consistent routes to move confidently between locations. With these tools, unfamiliar indoor spaces become structured, predictable, and navigable.
LESSON — Identify Key Locations Using Seeing AI (Bathroom, Office, Exit)
Purpose: Build reliable indoor landmarks using real-world identification instead of map-based pins.
The user says: “Open Seeing AI.”
Then selects modes such as:
Short Text
Document
Product
Scene
The user scans the environment to identify:
Signs (Bathroom, Exit, Room Numbers)
Doorways and landmarks
Printed materials
VoiceOver reads detected text and descriptions.ment and hallway cues, which assists anyone aiming to use Dropped Pins for indoor building navigation.
The user pairs this information with physical landmarks such as:
Wall direction
Door placement
Hallway turns
Navigate Between Locations Using Siri, Compass, and Landmarks
Purpose: Use consistent routes and directional cues to travel between identified locations.
To return to the Main Room: “Hey Siri, open Compass.”
The user aligns direction based on known orientation.
To locate the Bathroom or Exit: The user uses:
Previously identified landmarks
Hallway structure
Door counts and turns
VoiceOver supports with:
Heading direction
Orientation feedback
The student follows consistent routes, reinforcing spatial understanding and independence.
Using Seeing AI on iPhone
What Seeing AI is
Seeing AI is a free app from Microsoft that uses your iPhone camera to:
Read text aloud
Identify objects and scenes
Recognize products and barcodes
Describe environments
It turns visual information into speech feedback in real time
Why it matters for blind users
Seeing AI supports:
Independent reading
Indoor navigation support
Identifying locations and objects
Understanding surroundings quickly
It is a support tool, not a replacement for O&M skills
Main features (channels) and how to use them
1. Short Text (fast reading)
Use for:
Signs
Door labels
Room numbers
How:
Open Seeing AI
Swipe to Short Text
Point camera toward text
It reads instantly as soon as text is detected
2. Document (longer reading)
Use for:
Papers
Handouts
Mail
How:
Swipe to Document
Hold phone above page
Listen for guidance:
“Move left”
“Move right”
Double tap to capture
Reads full document clearly
3. Scene (environment awareness)
Use for:
Understanding a room
Locating objects
Getting general layout
How:
Swipe to Scene
Point camera around slowly
Example output:
“Hallway with doors”
“Table and chairs”
4. Product (barcode scanning)
Use for:
Food items
Products
Bottles
How:
Swipe to Product
Move camera slowly
Listen for beep when barcode is found
Reads product name
5. People (optional)
Use for:
Detecting faces
Estimating distance
How to use Seeing AI for indoor navigation
Step 1: Identify locations
Use:
Short Text → read signs
Scene → understand layout
Example:
“Bathroom” sign
“Room 204”
Step 2: Build mental map
Combine:
What you hear from Seeing AI
O&M skills:
hallway direction
turns
landmarks
Step 3: Move with direction
Use:
Compass
Consistent routes
Landmark recall
Seeing AI helps identify You move using orientation + memory
Indoor Navigation for Blind Travelers Using iPhone App-2
Using Siri • VoiceOver • Compass • O&M Skills: 2 of 9 Lessons
Navigate Indoors with Siri + Compass
Purpose: Use Siri’s heading cues and Compass to walk straight in a path. If you need to Navigate Indoors with Siri + Compass, this guide will help you do it effectively.
Step 1: Open Compass
Siri gives:
A heading (North, South, East, West)
A distance (20 feet, 50 feet)
Even indoors, this information is reliable and as you navigate, read the braille labels on doors to become familiar with locations.
Step 2: Open Compass to Align the Body
The user says: “Hey Siri, open Compass.”
VoiceOver announces the current heading using degrees.
Step 3: Match Siri’s Direction
Examples:
If Siri says “Head west,” user turns until Compass says 260–280 degrees.
If Siri says “Head north,” user turns until Compass says 350–10 degrees.
Step 4: Begin Walking Straight
The user holds the phone flat against the stomach.
The user walks forward.
If headings drift, user adjusts slightly.
Siri Orientation Commands
These help instantly:
“Hey Siri, which way am I facing?”
“Hey Siri, point me north.”
“Hey Siri, what’s my heading?”
Navigate Indoors
Navigate Indoors Using Seeing AI + Lazarillo + Compass
Purpose
The student will learn to orient themselves indoors and move with direction by combining environmental identification (Seeing AI), global orientation (Lazarillo), and body alignment (Compass) with O&M skills.
Build Orientation and Navigate with Direction
Step 1: Establish Global Orientation Using Lazarillo
Purpose: Understand where you are in relation to the outside world.
Say: “Hey Siri, open Lazarillo.”
Listen as Lazarillo announces-outside streets so you can relate inside to outside locations:
Nearby streets
Intersections
Points of interest
The student determines:
“The front of the building faces Main Street.”
“The parking lot is behind me.”
This creates a global reference point, even while indoors.
Step 2: Align the Body Using Compass
Purpose: Establish consistent direction.
Say: “Hey Siri, open Compass.”
VoiceOver announces heading in degrees.
The student aligns to a known direction:
North ≈ 0°
East ≈ 90°
South ≈ 180°
West ≈ 270°
The student notes:
“Hallway runs east to west”
“Classroom is on the north side”
This builds directional consistency, not guessing.
Step 3: Identify Indoor Landmarks Using Seeing AI
Purpose: Locate and confirm key points inside the building.
Open Seeing AI: “Hey Siri, open Seeing AI.”
Use:
Short Text → read signs (Bathroom, Exit, Room numbers)
Scene → understand layout
The student identifies:
Doors
Signs
Hallway intersections
Pair with physical awareness:
Door on right
Second hallway on left
This creates reliable indoor landmarks
Step 4: Move with Direction and Landmarks
Purpose: Travel with control and accuracy.
The student:
Aligns direction using Compass
Confirms location using Seeing AI
Uses Lazarillo for global awareness
The student walks forward while:
Maintaining heading
Counting doorways
Listening for environmental cues
If drift occurs:
Stop
Recheck Compass
Reconfirm with Seeing AI
Commands:
“Hey Siri, which way am I facing?”
“Hey Siri, what’s my heading?”
“Hey Siri, open Compass”
“Hey Siri, open Lazarillo”
Siri provides instant orientation support
Key Instructional Concept
Lazarillo → tells you where you are in the world
Compass → tells you which direction you are facing
Seeing AI → tells you what is around you
O&M skills → allow you to move safely and independently
Important Note
No app provides true indoor turn-by-turn navigation. Independence comes from combining:
Technology
Direction
Landmarks
Repetition
Outcome
The student will be able to:
Establish orientation indoors using external reference points
Blind Travelers Drop a Pin and Save Routes Using Siri, VoiceOver, Apple Maps, and Compass
Person uses iPhone navigation tools to walk safely and independently.
Navigate: Drop a Pin and save routes: Images show compass on 1 side and on Google Maps route on the other
Students and adults need reliable ways to travel from a drop-off or pick-up point to their destination. This skill matters at home, school, work, and in the community. This resource, called Navigate: Drop a Pin and Save Routes, teaches travelers how to drop a pin, save routes, and use Siri, VoiceOver, Apple Maps, Google Maps, and the Compass app to move with confidence. It was created for students, yet anyone building independent travel skills will find it helpful.
A. Dropping a Pin at Home
1. Open Maps Say: “Hey Siri, open Apple Maps.”
2. Drop your home pin Outside
VoiceOver says “Current Location.”
Flick right to “Drop Pin.”
Double-tap.
Flick to “Add Label.”
Double-tap.
Say: “Home.”
Activate “Done.”
Now Siri always knows your home.
B. Dropping a Pin at School
Person does this at the front door or the main entrance of school outside.
1. Open Maps Say: “Hey Siri, open Apple Maps.”
2. Drop your school pin
Flick to “Drop Pin.”
Double-tap.
Flick to “Add Label.”
Say: “School.”
Activate “Done.”
C. Dropping a Pin at Your Pick-Up Van Location
Do this standing exactly where you wait each day outside
1. Say: “Hey Siri, open Apple Maps.”
2. Drop the pin
Flick to “Drop Pin.”
Double-tap.
3. Label it
Flick to “Add Label.”
Say: “Pick-Up Van.”
Activate “Done.”
Now you can find your pickup vehicle every day.
D. Navigating to Saved Pins
Go from Home to School
Say: “Siri, give me walking directions to School.”
Go from School to Pick-Up Van
Say: “Siri, give me walking directions to Pick-Up Van.”
Go from Pick-Up Van to School Door
Say: “Siri, walking directions to School.”
Go from School to Home
Say: “Siri, give me walking directions to Home.”
Siri will speak the direction and distance. Person follows the heading using Compass and hallway cues.
E. Using the Compass
1. Open Compass Say: “Hey Siri, open Compass.”
2. Listen to headings VoiceOver speaks numbers.
3. Basics North = 0 East = 90 South = 180 West = 270
4. Staying straight When Siri says “Head west,” Person turns until Compass says “270.”
Compass keeps her on track indoors and outside.
F. Using Look Around
Look Around works outside the building. It helps Person understand the campus layout.
1. Open Look Around Say: “Open Apple Maps.” Search for “Colonial Heights Middle School.” Flick to Look Around. Double-tap.
VoiceOver describes:
Doors
Parking
Roads
Campus layout
This helps her know where she is before entering the school.
G. Daily Routine for Person
Morning
Say: “Siri, directions to School.”
Use Compass to hold the heading.
Follow the route to the door.
Afternoon
Say: “Siri, directions to Pick-Up Van.” or Bus or spot you need to get to
Follow hall cues and Compass.
Arrive at the van spot.
Evening
When dropped off- Say: “Siri, directions to Home.”
Walk with confidence.
H. Notes for Parents and Instructors
Siri uses the pins Person labels.
Pins stay saved unless she deletes them.
She can use them every day with one command.
She should practice the routes with support first.
Please encourage her to use Siri daily for consistency.
Blind Travelers Drop a Pin and Save Routes Using Siri, VoiceOver, Apple Maps, and Compass
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.
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.
Drop a Pin with iPhone using Google Maps and Voice Over to share location with someone to come pick you up
Blind travelers build custom indoor and outdoor routes using Siri, Apple Maps, Google Maps, VoiceOver gestures, and the Compass app. These tools work together and create a reliable navigation system. Each step supports confidence and helps travelers move safely through any building or surrounding area.
Google Maps remains helpful outdoors. Apple Maps remains best for dropping labeled pins and using Siri for fast navigation.
Part 1 — Drop a Pin Using Siri and VoiceOver (Apple Maps)
Dropping labeled pins works best in Apple Maps, because Siri supports pin creation and VoiceOver announces label options clearly.
A. Drop a Pin at the Starting Location
Say, “Hey Siri, open Apple Maps.”
Wait until VoiceOver announces “Current Location.”
Flick right until you hear “Drop Pin.”
Perform a double-tap and hold to drop the pin.
Flick right to “Add Label.”
Double-tap.
Dictate a label such as “Main Room.”
Flick right to “Done.”
Double-tap to save.
B. Drop a Pin at the Next Location
Repeat the process at any hallway, office, bathroom, or exit.
Say, “Hey Siri, open Apple Maps.”
Flick to “Drop Pin.”
Double-tap and hold.
Flick to “Add Label.”
Double-tap.
Dictate “Bathroom.”
Flick to “Done.”
Double-tap.
Part 2 — Navigate Between Custom Pins (Apple Maps + Google Maps)
Siri provides indoor headings and distance even when indoor maps do not exist. Google Maps adds strong outdoor accuracy when needed.
A. Navigate to the Main Room (Apple Maps)
Say, “Siri, walking directions to Main Room.”
VoiceOver reads distance and direction.
B. Navigate to the Bathroom (Apple Maps)
Say, “Siri, walking directions to Bathroom.”
Follow hall cues and maintain alignment.
C. Use Google Maps When Outdoors
Say: “Hey Siri, open Google Maps.”
Use VoiceOver to choose Walking.
Follow turn-by-turn directions with outdoor accuracy.
Google Maps excels outdoors. Apple Maps excels for labeled pins indoors.
Part 3 — Teach Compass Skills for Indoor Orientation
A. Open Compass
Say, “Hey Siri, open Compass.”
VoiceOver reads the heading.
B. Teach Basic Directions
North equals 0 degrees.
East equals 90 degrees.
South equals 180 degrees.
West equals 270 degrees.
C. Practice Turning
Face forward.
Listen to the heading.
Turn left or right.
Listen as VoiceOver updates the heading.
D. Connect Compass to Pins
Say, “Siri, walking directions to Bathroom.”
Listen for cues like “Head west.”
Match the heading in Compass.
Walk in that direction.
Part 4 — Build Route Memory Using O&M Skills
A. Notice Landmarks
Teach the traveler to notice:
Floor textures
Temperature changes
Echo patterns
Doorframes
Rails
Open spaces
B. Teach Step Counting
Start at the first labeled pin.
Count steps to the next point.
Stop at each turn.
Record distances.
C. Teach Repetition
Practice with guidance.
Practice with shadowing.
Practice with verbal prompts.
D. Teach Reverse Routing
Walk the route backward using opposite turns.
Using Look around app on iPhone to “see” what is around the traveler
Part 5 — Use Look Around with Apple Maps
Look Around helps travelers understand the outside of a building.
A. When Look Around Works
On public streets
At building entrances
Around sidewalks and driveways
B. Open Look Around
Say, “Hey Siri, open Apple Maps.”
Search for the building.
Flick until VoiceOver says “Look Around available.”
Double-tap to open it.
C. What Look Around Teaches
Street layout
Sidewalk positions
Entrance locations
D. What Look Around Cannot Do
No hallways
No interior rooms
No indoor turn-by-turn directions
Create Custom Routes
Part 6 — A Complete Custom Route Routine
Use Look Around outside to understand the area.
Drop labeled pins at important indoor locations.
Use Siri for walking directions to any saved pin.
Use Compass to match the required heading.
Use Google Maps for outdoor paths when needed.
Build step counts and turns for each route.
Use landmarks for confirmation.
Practice until the traveler moves independently.
Share Location, Get Directions, Add to Favorites and more using Google Maps, Voice Over and Siri
Part 7 — Share Your Location Quickly for Pickup or Safety
Blind people often need to share their exact location so family, friends, or rides can find them. Siri and VoiceOver make this process fast and hands-free.
This skill works indoors and outdoors. It also works when someone feels unsafe, confused, or needs help immediately.
A. Share Your Location with Siri (Fastest Method)
Say: “Hey Siri, share my location with Mom.” (Replace “Mom” with any trusted contact.)
Siri sends your exact GPS location.
VoiceOver confirms: “Sent your current location.”
This method works even when you cannot identify where you are.
B. Share Your Location in Messages (Manual Method)
Say: “Hey Siri, open Messages.”
Touch the center of the screen.
Flick right until you hear the contact’s name.
Double-tap to open the conversation.
Flick right until you hear “Send My Current Location.”
Double-tap to send it.
VoiceOver confirms the message.
This method helps when someone prefers not to dictate aloud.
C. Share Your Location Permanently With a Trusted Contact
This helps a helper monitor travel when needed.
Say: “Hey Siri, open Messages.”
Open the trusted contact’s conversation.
Flick to “Details” or “Info.”
Double-tap.
Flick to “Share My Location.”
Double-tap.
Flick to “Share Indefinitely.”
Double-tap to activate.
The trusted person can now find your location anytime you share it.
D. When Lost
Stop walking.
Hold the phone in both hands.
Face a quiet direction.
Say: “Hey Siri, share my location with Mom,” or person.
Wait for VoiceOver to confirm.
Stay in place until person arrives.
E. Combine Location Sharing With Dropped Pins
You can do both:
Drop a pin at the pickup point.
Label it with VoiceOver.
Share their location with Siri so the pickup person receives the exact spot.
Use Compass to stay oriented until they arrive.
This gives the safest and most accurate pickup routine.
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
Touch the middle of the screen to find the list.
Flick right until VoiceOver says “Add Contact.”
Double-tap to open it.
Enter the person’s name.
Flick right to the phone number field.
Double-tap and enter the number.
Flick right until you hear “Done.”
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
Touch the top of the screen.
VoiceOver speaks the user’s name.
Double-tap.
Open Find My
Flick right slowly until you hear “Find My.”
Double-tap to open it.
Enable location sharing
Flick right until you hear “Share My Location.”
Double-tap to turn it on.
Your iPhone can now send your live location when requested.
Step 3: How blind peopleShare Location With a Trusted Person Permanently
Open Messages
Say, “Hey Siri, open Messages.”
Open the trusted person’s conversation
Touch the center of the screen.
Flick right until you hear their name.
Double-tap.
Open contact details
Touch the upper right corner.
Flick right until VoiceOver says “Info” or “Details.”
Double-tap.
Share permanently
Flick right until you hear “Share My Location.”
Double-tap.
Flick right to “Share Indefinitely.”
Double-tap.
Your trusted person now sees your location anytime you choose to share it.
Step 4: How Blind People Drop a Pin toShare 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
Open the trusted person’s conversation.
Flick right until you hear “Send My Current Location.”
Double-tap.
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:
Stop walking.
Hold your phone securely.
Face a quiet direction.
Say, “Hey Siri, share my location with Mom.”
Wait for VoiceOver to confirm.
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.
Can’t Log in, forgot password: Computer showing errors
Forgotten Passwords & Login Problems
When you can’t log in — whether you forgot your password, never received the code, or your computer refuses to move past the first screen — everything stops. The frustration hits instantly, and it happens to everyone. The good news is that most login problems have simple, safe fixes. This guide walks you through the most effective steps to get back into your accounts, clean up the issues that cause login failures, and set up your devices so you don’t get locked out again — or at least know exactly what to do when a computer update suddenly changes your options. Keep that in mind: the problem may not be you. Sometimes an update quietly shifts the settings behind the scenes, and you just need to adjust to the new way your computer handles logins.
Forgotten Passwords & Login Problems: A Clear, Safe Guide to Getting Back In
People search for this more than almost any other tech issue. You are in Good company. Here’s a simple, accessible guide to help you get back into your accounts — and prevent future lockouts.
Start Easy: Hard Refresh the Page (Ctrl + Shift + R) on a PC and Command + Shift+ R on a Mac
1️.Locked Out of an Account? Start Here
Common symptoms
Password suddenly not working
Reset link not arriving
Multi‑factor authentication (MFA) asking for a code you can’t access
Endless login loops
These problems usually come from:
Browser cache issues
Old passwords stored in auto-fill
Conflicting authentication methods
Out‑of‑date recovery information
2️. Clear Your Browser Cache (This Fixes 50% of Login Problems)
Chrome
Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete
Choose Cached images and files
Click Clear data
Edge
Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete
Select Cached images and files
Click Clear now
Firefox
Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete
Select Cache
Click Clear
This removes corrupted login data and forces the site to load fresh.
Also Check Your Saved Passwords (Old Ones Cause Login Failures Too-delete them!)
After you clear your cache, take one more quick step: open your browser’s saved passwords and delete the outdated ones. Old passwords often override the new ones you type, which creates endless login loops.
Chrome
Press Alt + E to open the menu
Press S to jump to Settings
Select Auto-fill and Passwords
Open Google Password Manager
Search for the site you’re trying to log into
Delete any old or duplicate passwords
Edge
Press Alt + F to open the menu
Press S for Settings
Select Profiles
Choose Passwords
Search for the website
Delete outdated or incorrect entries
Firefox
Select Settings
Choose Privacy & Security
Scroll to Logins and Passwords
Open Saved Logins
Remove old or incorrect passwords
Why this matters
Browsers love to “help” by auto-filling passwords — even when they’re wrong. When you delete the old ones:
Your new password works correctly
The login screen stops looping
The reset process finally sticks
You avoid the “I know I typed it right!” frustration
3️. When You Set Up a Password — ALWAYS Connect It to Your Phone
This is the single most important step for preventing lockouts.
Set up the same password manager on your computer to pair with phone
Why?
Your phone becomes your identity key. If you forget your password, the system can verify you instantly.
You can also quickly go into your password manager and look up the password you need for any site on your computer.
Set Up the Same Password Manager on Your Phone and Computer
Using the same password manager on both devices keeps everything synced. When you update a password on your phone, it instantly updates on your computer — and that prevents almost every future lockout. And remember, you don’t have to use the password manager every time you log in. As you create accounts, save your usernames and passwords in your browser so you can keep logging in the same easy way you always have. The password manager simply becomes your reliable backup when something goes wrong.
Below are simple, universal steps that work for any major password manager (Microsoft Authenticator, Bitwarden, 1Password, etc.).
Step 1: Install the Password Manager on Your Phone
Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
Search for your chosen password manager.
Tap Install.
Open the app and sign in or create an account.
Turn on sync if the app asks (most do automatically).
Your phone now becomes your secure “master key.”
Step 2: Install the Same Password Manager on Your Computer
Open your browser
Go to the password manager’s official website.
Download the desktop app or browser extension.
Sign in with the same account you used on your phone.
This pairs your computer and phone instantly.
Step 3: Turn On Sync Between Device
Most password managers sync automatically, but here’s how to confirm:
Open the password manager on your phone.
Go to Settings.
Look for Sync, Cloud Sync, or Account Sync.
Make sure it’s turned ON.
Now every password you save on one device appears on the other.
Step 4: Import or Save Your Password
You can now:
Save new passwords directly into the manager
Import passwords from your browser
Update old passwords and let the manager store them–This ensures you never rely on outdated browser auto-fill again.
Step 5: Choose How you want to Log in: Password Manager or From Browser
Option A: Keep using your browser’s saved passwords
This is the fastest way to log in day‑to‑day. Your browser auto-fills your username and password, and you move on with your work.
Option B: Use the password manager when needed
If something breaks —
a password doesn’t work
a browser update wipes your autofill
a site forces a reset — you can open your password manager and instantly look up the correct username and password.
This is the key detail: Your password manager acts as your backup vault, so you never lose access even if your browser forgets or changes something.
Why This Matters
When your phone and computer share the same password manager:
You always have the correct password stored somewhere safe
You can keep using your browser for fast logins
You avoid lockouts caused by old autofill entries
You stay in control even when updates change things
It’s the perfect balance of speed and security.
4️.Choose ONE Authentication Method (Not All of Them)
Using multiple authenticators confuses systems and causes login loops.
Here are the three main types, with simple visuals you can describe to your audience:
🔵 Option 1: Text Message (SMS)
Visual: A phone with a speech bubble containing a 6‑digit code. Best for: Beginners Pros: Easy, no app needed Cons: Not as secure as app‑based codes
🟢 Option 2: Authenticator App (Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, Duo)
Visual: A shield icon with a rotating 6‑digit code. Best for: Most users Pros: Fast, secure, works offline Cons: Must be installed on your phone
🟣 Option 3: Email Verification
Visual: An envelope with a key inside. Best for: People who check email constantly Pros: Simple Cons: Slow, sometimes goes to spam
5️. Windows Login Problems: Safe Steps You Can Do
Sometimes Windows won’t let you log in because of:
A stuck update
A corrupted profile
A password mismatch
A login option that’s blocking access (PIN, fingerprint, picture password)
Use SHIFT + RESTART to Access Windows Recovery Options
This is the only safe, built‑in way to reach troubleshooting tools.
Steps
On the login screen, click the Power icon (bottom right).
Hold SHIFT on your keyboard.
While holding SHIFT, click Restart.
Windows will open the Advanced Startup Menu.
From here, you can safely access:
✔ Startup Repair
Fixes boot issues.
✔ Safe Mode
Lets you log in with minimal drivers.
✔ Command Prompt
For advanced repairs (not needed for most users).
✔ Reset Password (Microsoft Account)
If you use a Microsoft account, you can reset it from here.
6️. Prevent Future Lockouts: Use a Password Manager on Your Phone
This is the long‑term solution that saves people from ever being locked out again.
Recommended password managers:
Microsoft Authenticator (has password storage built in)
Bitwarden (free, secure, cross‑platform)
1Password (paid, excellent for families)
Google Password App
LastPass (popular, but had past breaches — use with caution)
Why store passwords on your phone?
Your phone is always with you
You can look up usernames and passwords instantly
Syncs with your computer
Works even if your computer won’t turn on
You’re not alone — login problems happen to everyone. With these steps in place, you’ll stay in control and avoid the frustration of being locked out again.
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.
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.
Best Computer PC Specs buying Guide for 2025 and beyond: RAM, CPU, SSD, graphics card, gaming and more explained
If you’re planning to buy a computer now, pause before diving into the best PC specs. Keep in mind that dealers often clear out older models during holiday sales. To make sure you know exactly what you’re getting, skip down to the section on ‘Older and Newer Naming’ of laptops.
Specs You Need and PC Details Explained
Memory (RAM): 64 GB DDR5 (4800–5600 MHz, dual channel, expandable to 128 GB on some models). Continue for more detailed advice, for Best Computer Specs Guide.
Storage (SSD): 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD (blazing fast read/write speeds, optional dual SSDs up to 4–8 TB total)
Display: 14‑inch UHD (3840 × 2160) Mini‑LED, 120 Hz refresh rate, HDR support or 14- 16‑inch OLED, 240 Hz for gaming/creative workloads
Reduce Eye Strain with a High Resolution Curved Screen
Ultra HD / 4K: 3840 × 2160 pixels
8K UHD: 7680 × 4320 pixels
Highest Resolutions Available (2025)
8K UHD (7680 × 4320):
Currently the highest mainstream resolution for TVs and monitors.
It is Extremely sharp, but requires powerful GPUs and large screens to notice the difference.
Best Curved Monitors (2025)
Brand
Best Model
Size / Resolution
Use Case
Key Strengths
Samsung
Odyssey OLED G9
49″ Dual QHD (5120×1440)
Gaming / Immersion
240 Hz refresh, deep 1000R curve, HDR OLED
Dell / Alienware
Alienware AW3425DW
34″ QD‑OLED (3440×1440)
Gaming / Esports
Fast response, vivid colors, G‑Sync Ultimate
Dell UltraSharp
U4025QW
40″ 5K2K (5120×2160)
Productivity / Multitasking
Huge workspace, USB‑C hub, color accuracy
LG
UltraGear 45GR75DC
45″ WQHD (3440×1440)
Gaming / Creative
OLED panel, 240 Hz, immersive ultrawide
HP
E45c G5
45″ Dual QHD (5120×1440)
Productivity / Office
Replaces dual monitors, ergonomic design
Gigabyte
G27FC
27″ Full HD (1920×1080)
Budget Gaming / Entry Level
Affordable, decent curve, FreeSync support
Quick Recommendations
For Gaming Immersion: Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 or Alienware AW3425DW.
For Productivity/Work: Dell UltraSharp U4025QW or HP E45c G5.
For Budget Buyers: Gigabyte G27FC.
For Hybrid Use (Gaming + Creative): LG UltraGear 45GR75DC.
Other items you need for laptop and more USBs for a desktop
Ports & Connectivity:
2 × Thunderbolt 4 / USB‑C
3 × USB‑A 3.2
HDMI 2.1
Ethernet RJ‑45
Wi‑Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.4
Keyboard: QWERTY keyboard, with Applications/Menu key
Around 4 pounds ≈ 1.81 kilograms.
How to Find Your Computer Specs (Windows 11, December 2025)
1: Using System Settings
Press Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
Press Shift + Tab to move focus to the Navigation Pane.
Arrow down to This PC (usually near the bottom).
Right‑click on This PC and choose Properties (or press Enter).
A window will open showing basic system information, including:
Device name
Processor (CPU)
Installed RAM
System type (32‑bit or 64‑bit)
Windows edition and version
2: Using Settings → About
Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
Navigate to System.
Scroll down and select About.
Under Device specifications, you’ll see:
Processor (CPU)
Installed RAM
Device ID
Product ID
System type
Under Windows specifications, you’ll see:
Edition (e.g., Windows 11 Pro)
Version and build number
3: Advanced Specs (Optional)
For deeper details like graphics card, storage, and drivers:
Press Windows key + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
This opens the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, showing CPU, RAM, GPU, and driver versions.
Summary
Basic specs (CPU, RAM, Windows version) → System → About or This PC → Properties.
Detailed specs (graphics card, drivers) → dxdiag.
These steps work with keyboard navigation and are accessible for screen reader users.
Find information in MSINFO32
MSINFO32 is the command that opens the System Information utility in Windows.
It provides a comprehensive overview of your computer’s hardware, software, and system components.
Unlike the simple “About” page, MSINFO32 gives deep technical details useful for troubleshooting, upgrades, or support.
How to Open MSINFO32
Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
The System Information window will appear.
What You’ll See in MSINFO32
System Summary (default view):
OS name and version
System manufacturer and model
Processor type and speed
Installed RAM
BIOS version/date
Boot mode (UEFI or Legacy)
Hardware Resources:
IRQs, DMA, I/O ports, memory addresses
Useful for diagnosing hardware conflicts
Components:
Display (graphics card details)
Storage (drives, controllers)
Network (adapters, protocols)
Input devices
Software Environment:
Loaded drivers
Running tasks
Services
Environment variables
Why It’s Useful
Troubleshooting: Quickly check BIOS version, drivers, and hardware conflicts.
Upgrades: Confirm RAM slots, CPU type, and expansion options.
Support: Export system info to share with IT or tech support.
Memory Details
These values describe how your computer uses RAM (physical memory) and virtual memory:
Installed Physical Memory (RAM): 64.0 GB The total amount of RAM physically installed in your system.
Total Physical Memory: 63.8 GB The usable portion of your installed RAM. A small amount is reserved for system hardware.
Available Physical Memory: 56.2 GB The amount of RAM currently free and available for use by applications and the system.
Total Virtual Memory: 67.8 GB This includes physical RAM plus page file space. Virtual memory allows your system to use disk space as extra memory when RAM is full.
Available Virtual Memory: 58.9 GB The portion of virtual memory that’s currently unused and available.
Page File Space: 4.00 GB The size of the page file (a reserved portion of your hard drive used as virtual memory).
Go to Programs and features and make sure you have all your security and power to run programs so do a find command for “run” and look for your .nets.
What .NET Does for a Computer—let’s just say it IS REALLY IMPORTANT
Runs Applications:it is software framework/platform .NET provides the Common Language Runtime (CLR), which acts like a virtual machine. It takes code written in languages like C#, F#, or VB.NET and makes sure it runs correctly on your computer.
Manages Resources: The CLR handles memory management, security, thread management, and error handling. This means programs don’t have to reinvent these functions — they rely on .NET to do it safely.
Provides Libraries: The Framework Class Library (FCL) is a huge collection of pre‑built code for everyday tasks:
Reading/writing files
Connecting to databases
Networking and internet communication
User interface controls
Math, cryptography, and more
Supports Multiple Languages: Developers can write programs in C#, F#, VB.NET, and others. .NET makes them interoperable, so code written in one language can work with another.
Cross‑Platform Evolution:
Go get those important computer items at: Ninite.com
Beat Graphics card for computers using screen readers or other access technologies: NVIDIA
GRAPHICs card RUN that screen reader–get a good one GAMING computers will get you the specs you need for a screen reader or just regular use
NVIDIA RTX cards dominate the high‑end market with unmatched ray tracing, AI features (DLSS, CUDA, Omniverse), and raw compute power.–the BEST for screen readers and older students–middle school up
AMD Radeon RX cards offer better value for money, strong rasterization performance, and more efficient power use, especially at 1440p and 4K gaming.
The applications key– is KEY of importance-the funny looking horseshoe on a gaming computer or square with lines in it on general computers–it is a right click of a mouse or 1 press of a key.
Basic specifications for a laptop: gaming computer will have the speed and video card needed for performance
Processor (CPU): some use the words i5, i7, i9 but the new words are Ultra 5,7 or 9 on machines–i9 is compared to ultra 9 and so on like this
Intel Naming Shift
Older naming convention (up to 13th Gen): so if you have this then know it is an older model and during holidays, this is what companies are selling cheaply to get rid of–so just be aware–
Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9
Example: Intel Core i7‑12700H
New naming convention (14th Gen and newer):
Intel Core Ultra 5, Ultra 7, Ultra 9
Example: Intel Core Ultra 9 185H
The “Ultra” branding emphasizes AI acceleration and new architecture (Meteor Lake, Lunar Lake).
How They Compare
Core i5 → Core Ultra 5
Core i7 → Core Ultra 7
Core i9 → Core Ultra 9
Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX (24 cores, up to 5.5 GHz turbo) or AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX (16 cores, up to 5.4 GHz turbo)
Memory (RAM): 64 GB DDR5 (4800–5600 MHz, dual channel, expandable to 128 GB on some models)
Storage (SSD): 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD (with option for dual SSDs up to 4 TB total)
Display: 17.3‑inch UHD (3840 × 2160) Mini‑LED, 120 Hz refresh rate, HDR support or 16‑inch OLED, 240 Hz for gaming/creative work
Favorite computers for running software such as JAWS, NVDA and other blind ware–You must have HIGH RAM and speed
Top Favorite: ASUS
ASUS Laptop Weights–based on student–
ZenBook Series (ultralight)
New ZenBook A14: as low as 2.18 lbs (0.99 kg)
VivoBook Series (mid‑range everyday use series)
ROG Gaming Series (heavy duty)
Zephyrus G14: ~3.53 lbs (1.6 kg)
Strix G15: ~5.07 lbs (2.3 kg)
Pic of ASUS-ROG-heavier with numpad
Surface Pro-top Favorite
Microsoft Surface Pro Weights–lightest and most powerful of laptops
Surface Pro 3–7: ~1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)
Surface Pro 8–10: ~1.94–1.96 lbs (0.88–0.89 kg)
Surface Pro 11 (latest): ~1.96 lbs (0.89 kg)
Surface Pro X (ARM model): ~1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)
comparing true laptop form factors, ASUS ultrabooks and Surface Laptop models are closer in weight, while Surface Pro remains the lightest option in the 2‑in‑1 category.
Different versions and do not suggest this collapsible one for students, that flips up–just too easy to flip down
Get Surface Pro with a true laptop lid that opens easily
HP computers
Be careful as most do not come with applications key any more–yes you can use Insert F10 but … takes 2 keys to implement a keystroked of right click
HP EliteBook 645 G10 includes a dedicated Applications/Menu key on its keyboard layout.
Build your computer: EliteBook 645 G10 is a lightweight, secure, and efficient business laptop with AMD Ryzen 7000 series power
Processor Options:
AMD Ryzen 5 7530U: 6 cores / 12 threads, up to 4.5 GHz-elementary and middle school
AMD Ryzen 7 7730U: 8 cores / 16 threads, up to 4.5 GHz-high school
These are efficient 7nm chips with solid multitasking and productivity performance.
Graphics:
Integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega 6 GPU
Suitable for office work, media playback, and light graphics tasks
Not designed for gaming or heavy 3D rendering.–but that is fine as that is not why you buy it
Memory:
Configurable up to 64 GB DDR4 RAM
Dual SO-DIMM slots, user-upgradable.
Storage:
PCIe SSD options, typically up to 1 TB
HP HP EliteBook 870 G11 (17‑inch) -4.1 lbs–keep in mind you want a laptop carry case for laptops
High‑Performance PC Laptop Models
HP ZBook Fury 16 G11 – workstation powerhouse for engineering, CAD, and 3D rendering
MSI Raider 18 HX AI – top‑tier gaming laptop with desktop‑class GPU
ASUS ROG Strix G18 / Zephyrus G16 – high‑end gaming and creator laptops
Do NOT overdo bump dots on keyboard to find position for touch typing-then student start counting dots to get to keys–create muscle memory which means you want to have them repeat typing skills–explanation below dot placements.
Place bump dots on keys: 5 and 0 on num row above qwerty keys-backspace is already large
Place dots on F4, F12–if all the keys run together then either F8 or F9. My F keys are broken up in panels from F1 to F4 and F5 to F8 and F9 to F12 so I do not need any bump dots–a gaming keyboard is divided up for speed of access so no bump dots needed
Many computers share the arrow keys with home, end pg up and pg down–only put a bump dot on up arrow to quickly move hand to the right while left hand holds down the FN key and right hand to do the pg up and so forth
Remember, the keyboard already has built in bump dots on f and j so do not place any more bump dots on keys
Dell is not my top choice of a computer but is a fine machine with specs you can get with:
Processors: Intel Core Ultra 7/9 or AMD Ryzen 9 HX — powerful x86 chips for heavy workloads.
Serviceability: Easier to upgrade storage, RAM, and wireless adapters
Memory: Configurable up to 64–128 GB DDR5 RAM, far beyond Surface’s 16–32 GB.
Storage: Options up to 2–8 TB PCIe NVMe SSDs.
Graphics: Dedicated NVIDIA RTX GPUs (e.g., RTX 5090 or workstation Ada cards).
Displays: Larger 16–18″ screens, often 2.5K or 4K OLED, high refresh rates.
Weight: Heavier (≈4 lbs / 1.8 kg), but more versatile for gaming, AI, or workstation tasks.
What I Use on a Daily Basis-I work very long hours
So I do have a Ultra HD / 4K: 3840 × 2160 pixels and it has changed my life with no more headaches from long hours at my screen and always have night light on-if you do not know about this feature, press your windows key and type night and night light will generate–decrease the brightness to more muted colors and it takes out more blue light which reduces eye strain. But the 4k does that by itself, then the night light takes away brightness–I am very light sensitive so light in general causes my eyes pain which gives headaches (I no longer have that issue with the 4k.). I use my screen reader often–hence the needed power in general.
My PC Computer Specs Explained
CLX computers are made by CLX Gaming, which is a division of Cybertron International Inc., a long‑standing U.S. system integrator based in Wichita, Kansas and an incredible company to work with for any product they sell.
About CLX
Founded: January 29, 2016, as a brand under Cybertron International.
Focus: Custom gaming PCs, workstations, and desktops tailored for gamers, content creators, and professionals.
Specialty:
Fully customizable builds (CPU, GPU, RAM, cooling, case design).
Award‑winning custom paint and chassis designs.
Product families named after Egyptian mythology (Ra, Set, Scarab, Horus, Osiris, Anubis).
Support: Free lifetime technical support, up to 3 years parts warranty, and lifetime labor coverage.
Why CLX Stands Out and why I picked it–I could build exactly what I wanted and needed and their service support is exceptional in the industry as if or when you call, you get a person who knows anything you ask.
Customization: You can configure nearly every component, from Intel/AMD CPUs to NVIDIA/AMD GPUs.
Performance: Builds range from mid‑tier gaming rigs to extreme workstations with 64–128 GB RAM and multi‑GPU setups.
Design: Known for bold, artistic case designs and RGB lighting.
Reliability: As part of Cybertron International (established in 1997), CLX benefits from decades of PC integration experience.
Takeaway
CLX computers are custom‑built in the USA by CLX Gaming (Cybertron International), offering high‑performance, highly customizable systems for gamers and professionals who want both power and personalization.
The CLX is the Best machine I have every owned and then I go portable with my Surface Pro which is also exceptional for power and portability
Restore System & fix PC issues, Word Auto-save & Copilot, Restoring Desktop Icons, etc. This guide resolves big or small PC issues. The video explains how to use System Restore to fix various problems on your computer. It also provides tips for ensuring your work is always saved automatically in Microsoft Word and shows commands to keep or remove Copilot in 365. Additionally, it demonstrates steps to restore desktop icons if they disappear. Designed to help viewers troubleshoot and resolve these issues efficiently using keyboard commands or a mouse. This video is part of the #TechTricks series, aimed at making tech tutorials accessible and easy to follow.
In addition to these essential tips, the video explains how to optimize your PC’s performance by managing startup programs and clearing unnecessary files. Viewers will also learn how to customize their system settings for a smoother user experience. Moreover, the guide emphasizes practical solutions that can be easily implemented, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced users. By following the steps outlined in the video, you can ensure your computer runs efficiently and remains free of common issues, such as needing to restore your system to fix PC issues.
Resolve PC problems with Daily Tasks
Performing daily maintenance tasks on your PC is essential for keeping it running smoothly and efficiently. For example, fixing PC issues can prevent long-term problems. Additionally, using System Restore helps you quickly resolve unexpected issues. Ensuring your work is always saved automatically in Microsoft Word prevents data loss and keeps your projects on track. Furthermore, keeping your desktop icons organized and visible helps maintain a clutter-free workspace. By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can prevent common problems and ensure your computer remains in optimal condition. This proactive approach saves time and enhances your overall productivity and user experience. Remember to restore your system and fix PC issues as part of your routine.
This video takes you through setting up the Tiger 9 software from ViewPlus Technology for translating math equations into braille so you can emboss Math with Tiger. Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to access the Tiger ribbon, open her existing profile settings, and configure options like the braille type and math notation style. She also shows how to adjust ink settings if needed for embossing printed text alongside braille. Then she translates the math and gets it ready to emboss for student.
Tiger 9 Math Translation and Editing
Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to use Tiger 9, to translate math content in Word. She use a 40 cell FOCUS braille display but emphasizes the importance of using an 80-cell braille display if the student is going into math or STEM fields. Dr. Robinson also explains how to use the WORD math equation editor or Braille math editor on the Braille display to emboss Math with Tiger. She concludes by solving a right triangle problem using the math contents then embossing the math for hard copy if desired.
Emboss Work with Tiger 9 in WORD
Go onto learn how to emboss graphics in WORD using Tiger software also for students to feel all needed math symbols and pictures to learn on their own. Ideally, all students have embossers at home. ViewPlus embossers with software are fully accessible for all exclusive screen reader users.
Low-vision users enhance visibility and accessibility using tech tricks for screen scaling, mouse visibility, and reading tools. Immersive Reader in Microsoft Word, accessible from the View tab, adjusts text spacing, column width, and background color. UsersThese Low Vision Computer Tricks improve readability by customizing these settings to suit their visual needs efficiently. In Microsoft Edge, Immersive Reader activates on supported pages to simplify reading and navigation. These tools combine to provide low-vision users with a personalized, accessible digital experience.
Dr. Robinson teaches strategies to enhance accessibility using low-visionLow toolsVision Computer Tricks in Microsoft Word, Edge, and system settings. First, she demonstrates how to adjust display settings for optimized visibility using the Windows key. By typing “display,” users can access scaling options, which enlarge screen content for better readability. Additionally, increasing mouse pointer size and inverting its color improves navigation while reducing eye strain.
Next, in Microsoft Word, Dr. Robinson highlights Immersive Reader, available in the View tab, to enhance readability and adjust text settings. For instance, users can change font styles and sizes with Ctrl+A and Ctrl+Shift+> or Ctrl+Shift+< for better clarity. These Low Vision Computer Tricks include changing font styles and sizes with Ctrl+A and Ctrl+Shift+> or Ctrl+Shift+< for better clarity. Furthermore, the Line Focus feature reduces clutter by focusing on one or a few lines, aiding users with dyslexia. Moreover, Read Aloud, activated with Alt+Ctrl+Space, provides text-to-speech support with adjustable speed and voice options.
In Edge, pressing F9 activates Immersive Reader, which simplifies web pages by removing clutter for a cleaner reading experience. Users can also customize text preferences or enable Read Aloud for auditory assistance. These Low Vision Computer Tricks also include customizing text preferences or enabling Read Aloud for auditory assistance. Notably, Dr. Robinson recommends Edge for its built-in accessibility commands, though Chrome and Firefox offer similar tools.
Immersive reader for low vision
Finally, she emphasizes using Night Light mode to reduce blue light exposure and protect long-term eye health. These tools, combined with her strategies, empower low-vision users to navigate technology effectively.
Dr. Robinson emphasizes practical and efficient math strategies for visually impaired students using assistive technology. Moreover, she demonstrates accessible solutions that empower students to engage independently in math tasks. Some of the best tricks to learning math for visually impaired students include understanding how to use technology effectively. For example, she teaches the Word Math Editor, activated with Alt+Equals, which enables students to access and edit equations effectively. Furthermore, this tool allows students to calculate expressions, such as a circle’s area, using keyboard shortcuts for greater efficiency. In addition, she introduces the Braille Math Editor, which enhances accessibility and provides tactile support for understanding complex math concepts. Continue with Advanced Math with LaTex using Mathkicker.AI-Matrices also.
Dr. Robinson configures Braille displays and the Braille Math Editor to improve accessibility and clarity for students. Students solve problems efficiently by using built-in features like scientific calculators and shortcuts such as Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V.
Dr. Robinson demonstrates advanced techniques, including LaTeX for math notation and proper vinculum coverage in equations. She converts equations between professional and linear formats to ensure accuracy in math tasks. Knowing tricks to learning math, such as using LaTeX, can greatly benefit students. Add Tactile Math Tools for even better understanding.
She teaches code structures and tools to help students work independently with their peers during lessons. By optimizing settings and using shortcuts, students gain confidence and efficiency in solving complex math problems.
Dr. Robinson ensures students participate fully in math classes and achieve academic success. Her methods, which include easy ways to learn math, integrate the latest assistive technologies to empower visually impaired students in STEM fields.
Decrease Eye Strain and See Your Computer More Easily
Blue light emitted from computer screens can be harmful to your eyes over time, contributing to digital eye strain, disrupted sleep patterns, and even long-term vision damage. For those with low vision, the strain caused by blue light can make using a computer even more challenging. In this post, I will guide you through simple adjustments to your computer settings that will not only help reduce blue light exposure but also make your screen and browser easier to view, enhancing your overall comfort and visual experience with Blue Light Low Vision Tech Tricks.
Blue light from electronic devices can cause a number of issues, including:
Eye strain
Blue light from screens can reduce contrast, leading to eye strain, dry eyes, and fatigue.
Retinal damage
Long-term exposure to blue light can damage retinal cells, which can lead to vision problems like age-related macular degeneration.
Sleep disruption
Exposure to blue light before bed can affect the body’s production of melatonin, which can disrupt sleep patterns.
Other health issues
Research suggests that exposure to blue light may contribute to cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Blue light gone for easy reading with low vision Tech Tricks in a Browser
Use blue light-blocking glasses or filters on your devices
Adjust your display settings
Follow the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, focus on an object about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds
Get regular eye exams
Constant exposure to blue light over time could damage retinal cells and cause vision problems such as age-related macular degeneration. It can also contribute to cataracts, eye cancer and growths on the clear covering over the white part of the eye.
Change the setup of your computer and save your VISION!
In today’s digital age, technology has transformed how we approach learning, especially in subjects like accessible math. More importantly, this transforms how all screen reader users can access math like their peers. MathKicker.AI math program provides access to AP classes and advanced math for high school and college students. This accessible tool caters to diverse learning needs, offering compatibility with various screen readers. This video features Advanced Math with LaTex and shows how it can enhance your mathematical skills, making complex equations easier to tackle.
Matrices
Dr. Robinson explains the basics of navigating MathKicker.AI. Matrices can easily create a Matrix with Alt = and type it in LaTex. This quickly provides accurate math and F9 will allow you to see and enter LaTex. You can also learn the LaTex from just typing the math into Mathkicker. The session showcases the ease of solving matrix equations, demonstrating how to find the matrix C resulting from matrices A and B.
Throughout the demonstration, Dr. Robinson shares tips for efficient navigation, including using the home key and arrow keys to read through equations. She highlights the functionality of the F9 key for processing inputs and emphasizes the need to verify details when working with complex equations.
As she works through a specific problem, Dr. Robinson illustrates how to structure equations and maintain clarity while performing calculations. Remember to double-check your work and she encourages people to utilize the program’s features for swift problem-solving.
By the end of the session, Dr. Robinson summarizes the output clearly, showcasing the successful application of Math Kicker. She encourages students to explore this tool for enhancing their math skills, particularly in higher education and advanced high school courses.
This tutorial not only highlights the software’s capabilities but also empowers screen reader users and all students to embrace technology in their learning to keep up with their peers.
Mathkicker editor with Jaws or NVDA and display for math access for advanced math
Other Math Lessons from Basic Math to Advance Skills
Digital Math in WORD and Braille Math Editor for Nemeth or UEB Input/Output via MathCat with JAWS or NVDA. This lesson empowers you to learn skills for teaching yourself and others Nemeth or UEB math. By incorporating Math AI, you can transform inaccessible math images into usable formats in just seconds, significantly speeding up the learning process compared to transcribing character by character. While the video covers some essential skills, the following links provide comprehensive lesson details from the Digital Math in WORD Video.
MathCat with JAWS or NVDA
Learning how to teach or learn Nemeth math using assistive technology can seem challenging, but with the right tools and approach, it becomes manageable and effective. Whether you’re a parent helping your child, an educator supporting students, or an independent learner, using a Focus 40 Braille Display and JAWS screen reader provides an accessible way to master Nemeth code. In this guide, I will walk you through setting up your technology and using the Braille Math Editor to confidently teach and learn math concepts from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra. Let’s simplify the process and enhance your skills.
Setup your computer to work the best with Screen readers and Digital Math in WORD
Before beginning the challenge of learning Nemeth or UEB with screen readers, make sure you Optimize your Windows 11 computer for Efficiency with Screen Readers 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.
Mathkicker.AI
Mathkicker for digital math access with Jaws or NVDA-Login Page
Learning how to teach or learn Nemeth math using assistive technology can seem challenging, but with the right tools and approach, it becomes manageable and effective. Whether you’re a parent helping your child, an educator supporting students, or an independent learner, using a Focus 40 Braille Display and JAWS screen reader provides an accessible way to master Nemeth code. In this guide, I will walk you through setting up your technology and using the Braille Math Editor to confidently teach and learn math concepts from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra. Let’s simplify the process and enhance your skills.
Setup Nemeth with JAWS
Start by setting JAWS to the proper Nemeth settings. Access the JAWS Settings Center with Insert + 6 then Control+Shift+D to set default: type “Braille m” in the search box. Navigate to “Braille Mode” and make sure you hear “Structured” mode, ensuring that both the active cursor and Braille cursor follow each other. This will allow you to track what the student is doing on their display.
Alt + F to language profiles, and alt + D to details. Once open Alt + M to math options and up arrow to Nemeth if it is not selected. This will ensure that math expressions are correctly read and displayed in Nemeth Braille. Enter to close, Alt + A to apply and enter to close.
Teach or learn Nemeth JAWS, braille display and BME
Using the Braille Math Editor is key to teaching and learning math effectively. Type out equations like “1+2=3” or more complex algebraic expressions, and feel the Braille output directly on your Braille display. Correct mistakes quickly using the Braille display and JAWS auditory feedback, making it easy to follow along. Use the Braille Viewer to see it visually and compare with the Braille Display by opening JAWS context menu, go to Utilities and Braille Viewer to turn it on.
This step-by-step approach works for basic arithmetic to complex math such as algebra, Trigonometry, calculus and beyond. Both the Braille Math Editor and Word Math Editor can help you visualize and interact with Nemeth code to easily learn it and/or teach others. Practice consistently to improve your tactile reading skills and build confidence in math.
By following this guide, you’ll gain the tools to teach and learn Nemeth math efficiently, whether for yourself or for your students.
In this lesson, you’ll learn how to teach and practice Unified English Braille (UEB) math using a Focus or Brailliant Braille display with JAWS. Start by setting up the correct Braille settings in JAWS, ensuring your Braille display and cursor follow each other for accurate feedback. Adjust your language profiles and choose UEB Grade 2 for output and input. Navigate through basic arithmetic and algebra problems using JAWS’ Braille Math Editor, making corrections easily. This step-by-step method will help both new and experienced teachers guide students in learning UEB math effectively.
First, set up JAWS properly by accessing the JAWS Settings Center Insert + 6 followed by (Ctrl+Shift+D) to set default. Type out and Navigate to “Braille mode” and ensure your display is set to “Structured” mode. Enable the settings that allow the active cursor to follow the Braille display and vice versa. This ensures that wherever your student is on the screen, you can follow along on your display. Turn on the Braille Viewer also to see the braille at the top of your monitor if you have sight.
Next, Alt + F to Language profiles then Alt + D to details and open and confirm UEB Grade 2 and Unicode by default. You can continue to Tab or Alt + M for math and select the UEB Math option in JAWS settings. Enter to close then Alt A to apply and enter to close. You are ready to go.
Practice using the Braille Math Editor
For practicing, you’ll use JAWS Braille Math Editor to create and edit math expressions as 1 option. Other options are WORD Math editor and LaTex as another as you become more advanced. Start with basic arithmetic, typing out equations such as “1+2=3,” and use the Braille display to feel the corresponding Braille output. This method works for both teaching and self-learning. As you advance to algebra, geometry, Trigonometry and calculus, use the WORD Math editor or Braille Math Editor to navigate complex equations. The editor allows easy error correction, reinforcing concepts as students work through problems.
Teach Math with Jaws and braille display-Basic to advanced math formulas
This method also helps auditory learners who can listen to JAWS while simultaneously feeling the Braille on the display. Practicing consistently with both the Braille Math Editor and JAWS will solidify UEB math skills and improve teaching efficacy.
Dr. Denise M. Robinson, PhD, CTVI, AT, and CEO of TechVision, LLC, leads worldwide remote teaching for blind and low vision students. Her YouTube channel, @DrDeniseMRobinsontech and this website, showcases making digital math accessible with MathCat with JAWS, or NVDA. This video provides 8 different ways to complete digital math with several options using the Braille Math Editor in WORD for UEB or Nemeth math, highlighting the advantages of Nemeth or UEB via MathCat. Links with full video lessons from this video follow. She also demonstrates reading math on a Braille display and creating or making complex formulas accessible. AI tools like MathKicker.AI enhance efficiency. The series includes geometry and graphing with Desmos. Dr. Robinson emphasizes that digital access is crucial for competitive education and inclusion with peers. Learn how to teach or Learn UEB Math Code.
Nemeth or UEB via MathCat: 8 videos on Math Access in WORD and Braille Math Editor with JAWS or NVDA
Life IS a competition and Digital access is key with Instruction
Life is a competition, and digital access is essential. It levels the playing field, enabling equal opportunities for everyone. Digital tools enhance skills and productivity. They open doors to education and employment. Having a qualified access technology instructor is crucial for teaching students Nemeth and UEB math codes to access everything their peers do. Embracing technology is vital for success and inclusion in today’s world. MathKicker. AI for Matrices with NVDA or JAWS-Speed in completing Work
More options for JUST auditory learners or braille learners and taking totally inaccessible images of WORD and making them accessible using Mathkicker.AI.
Embossing graphics for Blind Students: Dr. Robinson offers this video for families and transcribers needing to adapt images for blind students to “see.” This video offers a straightforward approach to creating accessible Venn diagrams using the technique to emboss graphics with Tiger.
Dr. Robinson begins by explaining how to handle a Venn Diagram or any graphic. She demonstrates using a Venn diagram with two large, intertwined circles, where all parts are shaded. Such images blur when transferred into Tiger Designer, a common tool for producing tactile graphics. She recommends redrawing the diagram for clarity, ease, and speed. This approach is more effective than fixing the shaded areas when you emboss graphics with Tiger.
How to Emboss the Tiger Graphic
To show blur issues, she creates a new diagram, by opening Tiger Designer and pressing Control + N to start a new document. After ensuring the default settings are correct, pasting an image using Control + V will result in a blurry output due to the shading. In this case, Dr. Robinson suggests redrawing the Venn diagram. Ctrl + N for new again and Alt+O or click on Tools. Select a line width of 2.5 or 3, as thicker lines are easier for students to feel when you emboss graphics with Tiger.
Dr. Robinson then demonstrates how to draw two circles from the tool’s menu, representing the basic structure of the Venn diagram. She emphasizes the importance of labeling the sections and typing in uncontracted Braille works fine. She notes that while parents may not be familiar with contractions, students are accustomed to reading uncontracted Braille. It’s crucial to use these steps to emboss graphics with Tiger accurately.
Finally, Dr. Robinson shows how to emboss the Tiger graphic with Ctrl + P to emboss. Ensure the correct printer model and settings are applied. The final result will be a clear and accessible tactile diagram that the student can easily interpret.
Learning Spanish Braille involves understanding the unique characteristics of the Braille system used for the Spanish language. Then build on the foundational skills of Braille reading and writing. Here’s how to approach it:
1. Understand the Braille Alphabet in Spanish
Spanish Braille follows the same 6-dot system as English Braille.
Extra characters are included to represent letters with accents and special characters used in Spanish.
Key additions include:
Ñ: Represented by a unique Braille symbol.
Accented vowels: Á, É, Í, Ó, Ú have distinct Braille symbols.
Punctuation: Spanish uses inverted question marks (¿) and exclamation marks (¡), and these have their own symbols in Spanish Braille.
2. Start with the Basics
– Begin by learning the standard Braille alphabet for unaccented letters, numbers, and common punctuation marks.
– Practice reading and writing these basic symbols to build fluency.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Extra Characters
– Learn the Braille symbols for accented vowels (á, é, í, ó, ú) and ñ.
– Read and practice with materials specifically written in Spanish Braille to develop fluency.
– You can find books, articles, or educational materials written in Spanish Braille to improve your reading skills online.
5. Engage with Digital Tools
– Tools like Braille displays and screen readers can be set to Spanish to help reinforce learning. See below list of all Spanish symbols
– Software like JAWS or NVDA can be configured to support Braille output in Spanish. This allows for real-time practice with written content.
6. Practice Writing Spanish Braille
– Use a Braille writer to practice writing in Spanish Braille. Focus on mastering punctuation and special characters.
– The fastest and easiest to edit option will be to practice typing or brailling on a display. The FOCUS 40 Braille Display or Brailliant Braille Display to write out Spanish words and sentences.
7. Learn through Immersive Activities
– Reinforce learning, engage in practical activities like labeling objects in Spanish Braille. Work with bilingual Braille texts (Spanish and English).
8. Find a Teacher or Tutor
– If possible, work with an instructor who is fluent in Spanish Braille and the language. They can guide you through the nuances of the language and provide feedback on your progress.
– Organizations specializing in Braille education, like TechVision, can help offer resources or tutors for Spanish Braille.
8. Go to a Spanish Speaking Country
-Totally immerse yourself within a culture that will speak the language you want to learn well.
Spanish-Española Symbols
Spanish-Española 1. Jaws settings: Set up braille profile – insert 6 (ctrl shift D) for default. After completing the steps, open settings again to ensure they apply only to Word settings. Next, type “braille mode” twice, press F6, and use Alt+G to access languages and set your preferences. For those requiring a Spanish Braille display or keyboard, ensure your device is compatible with your software settings. More Video lessons can help.
This lesson is Spain (international) Input and Output are Spanish Grade 1
2. Tab to profile languages and set those up and enter to close Jaws settings
3. Alt 8 to make sure dots 7,8 show on display-accept and close settings
1. Set up Voice profile in Jaws-open context menu, options, voices, add a profile
1. In Word-change voice quickly: 2 options: on keyboard- ctrl shift window L to change profile or on Focus -2,3,4,5,7, space to change languages)
2. Insert+ctrl+S to change to Spanish profile or to other language
3. G+7+space on Focus to computer braille (which will output Spanish grade 1)– capital is dot 7 under capital letter on display
For Braille with Braille Display on Computer
Práctica:
á 1,2,3,5,6
é 2,3,4,6
í 3,4
ó 3,4,6
ú 2,3,4,5,6
ü 1,2,5,6,8
ñ 1,2,4,5,6, 8
Punctuation for Spanish Braille using Braille Display
! 2,3,5, 7 is exclamation mark
inverted ! is 2,3,5, 7, 8 is upside down exclamation mark
Period is . is dot 3
Comma is , is dot 2 for comma
question mark is ? is dot 2, 6
upside down question mark or inverted ? is 2,6,7
Spanish Braille for Keyboard and JAWS
Lower Case Letters
á (lower case a, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter a é (lower case e, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter e í (lower case i, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter i ó (lower case o, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter o ú (lower case u, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter u ñ (lower case n, tilde accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + ~ (tilde), then the letter n ü (lower case u, diaeresis accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + : (colon), then the letter u
Upper Case Letters
Á (upper case A, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + a É (upper case E, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + e Í (upper case I, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + i Ó (upper case O, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + o Ú (upper case U, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + u Ñ (upper case N, tilde accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + ~ (tilde), then Shift + n Ü (upper case U, diaeresis accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + : (colon), then Shift + u
Hasta la vista / Hasta luego. See you / See you later.
Hasta pronto. See you soon.
Hasta mañana. See you tomorrow.
(Muchas) Gracias.
Thank you (very much).
De nada. You’re welcome.
Bienvenidos Welcome
Lo siento I’m sorry
Con permiso / Perdón / Disculpe Excuse me / Pardon me
¡Vamos! Let’s go!
¿Cómo está usted? How are you? (formal)
¿Cómo estás? How are you? (informal)
Insert+4 for eacute in
¿Qué tal? How’s it going?
Bien / Muy bien Good / Very good
Insert+4 for acute in Más below
Mal / Muy mal / Más o menos Bad / Very bad / OK
Sí / No Yes / No
¿Cómo?
¿Cómo se llama usted? What is your name? (formal)
¿Cómo te llamas? What is your name? (informal)
Me llamo… / Mi nombre es… My name is…
Mucho gusto. / Encantado. Nice to meet you.
Immersion in Language
Here is the sequence of learning in order to learn any language well:
The time it takes to learn a new language, like Spanish, while living in a country where it is the only language spoken, depends on several factors. However, here are general timelines and considerations:
1. Immersion Benefits
Living in a Spanish-speaking country accelerates learning because you’re constantly exposed to the language in real-life situations like:
Listening: Conversations, TV, radio, and announcements.
Speaking: Daily interactions with locals, from shopping to asking for directions.
Reading and Writing: Street signs, menus, newspapers, and more.
2. Language Learning Proficiency Levels
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) breaks language learning into six levels:
A1 (Beginner): Basic phrases and conversations (3–6 months).
A2 (Elementary): Can understand simple texts and conversations (6–12 months).
B1 (Intermediate): Hold conversations on familiar topics and function in everyday life (12–18 months).
B2 (Upper Intermediate): Fluent in most situations, including work and travel (18 months–2 years).
C1 (Advanced): Understand complex topics and engage in nuanced conversation (2–3 years).
C2 (Proficient): Full mastery of the language, similar to a native speaker (3+ years).
Factors that will Determine Speed
3. Factors That Affect Learning Speed
Motivation and Attitude: Strong motivation and a positive mindset can accelerate your progress.
Practice Consistency: Daily practice, speaking, listening, and reading in Spanish speeds up learning.
Prior Language Experience: If you’re already familiar with Romance languages (e.g., Italian or French), learning Spanish might be faster due to similarities in vocabulary and grammar.
Formal Education: Taking classes, whether in person or online, and using language apps like Duolingo or Babbel can help structure your learning and improve your skills more quickly.
Social Interaction: Making friends who are native speakers or joining local groups can enhance your conversational abilities.
4. Realistic Expectations
– For basic conversational fluency (A2-B1), expect about 6 months to 1 year of immersion if you’re dedicated and practicing regularly.
– To reach an advanced level (C1), you might need 2 to 3 years of living and interacting in the language full-time.
5. Cultural Immersion
Your understanding of Spanish will deepen faster if you immerse yourself in the local culture, customs, and idiomatic expressions. Engaging in local activities, reading newspapers, and watching TV shows will all help you learn the language more organically.
Summary:
On average, 6 months to 1 year of immersion in a Spanish-speaking country should allow you to gain conversational fluency, with full mastery taking about 2–3 years, depending on your dedication and resources.
Adult Learning Speed
Sequence of learning for an adult
For adults, learning a new language like Spanish while living in a country where it’s the only language spoken can still be highly effective, but several factors can influence the timeline. Here’s what an adult learner can expect:
1. General Time frames for Adult Learners
Conversational fluency (A2-B1 level): Typically achievable in 6 months to 1 year of immersion.
Advanced proficiency (B2-C1 level): May take 1.5 to 2.5 years of consistent use and practice.
Full fluency (C2 level): Can take 3 years or more, depending on factors like exposure, practice, and language complexity.
2. Factors Affecting Adult Learning Speed
Cognitive Flexibility: Adults tend to be more methodical learners than children, but they can sometimes struggle with retaining new vocabulary and adapting to different grammar structures.
Prior Experience: If the adult already speaks a Romance language (like Italian or French), they will likely learn Spanish more quickly because of the structural similarities.
Learning Environment: The more opportunities for immersion—such as interacting with native speakers, engaging in cultural activities, and using Spanish in daily tasks—the faster the progress.
Language Learning Methods: Adults often benefit from a combination of formal learning (e.g., classes, tutors) and informal learning (e.g., conversations, media consumption).
Motivation and Consistency: Adults with clear goals and regular practice (even just 30 minutes a day) tend to progress faster. Maintaining consistent practice is key to long-term retention.
Challenges for Adult Learners
3. Challenges for Adult Learners
Accent and Pronunciation: Adults might find it harder to develop a native-like accent, though this doesn’t prevent them from becoming highly fluent.
Work and Life Responsibilities: Adults often juggle work and personal responsibilities, which can limit the time available for focused language learning.
Grammar: Grasping grammatical structures, verb conjugations, and nuances may take longer for adults compared to younger learners, who tend to absorb new patterns more intuitively.
4. Accelerating Adult Learning
Use Daily Immersion: Engage in conversations, read signs, watch TV shows, and use apps like Duolingo or Babbel to reinforce lessons in real-life situations.
Structured Learning: Enroll in Spanish classes or hire a tutor to build a strong foundation in vocabulary and grammar.
Use Technology: Utilize language-learning apps, podcasts, or online lessons. Watching Spanish media with subtitles can help you pick up common phrases and pronunciation.
– Join Social Circles: Engage with locals, participate in group activities, and use Spanish in daily interactions. This practical experience will help reinforce what you’ve learned.
– Set Realistic Goals: Adults benefit from having clear, incremental goals (e.g., mastering a certain level of vocabulary or holding a 10-minute conversation) to track progress and stay motivated.
Adult Experience
5. Common Experiences for Adults
After 3-6 months, most adults can hold basic conversations, ask for directions, and manage daily interactions in Spanish.
By 1 year, many can discuss familiar topics, navigate most social situations, and understand much of what they hear or read.
Within 2 years, a dedicated adult learner can likely achieve strong conversational fluency and understand complex topics, though nuances and slang may still be challenging.
Summary
For an adult, achieving conversational fluency in Spanish typically takes 6 months to 1 year with immersion and regular practice. Advanced proficiency may take 1.5 to 2.5 years, while full fluency could require 3 years or more, depending on the learner’s background, motivation, and exposure to the language.
Dr. Robinson and her Team at TechVision have made a significant global impact via their Team Mission and Purpose. TechVision specializes in 1:1 remote instruction in education for the blind and visually impaired, serving individuals of all ages. We also train School Teams: transcribers, Teachers of the Blind and other School Personal and work with parents. Their expertise is delivered through personalized, real-time 1:1 remote instruction. This approach empowers students and clients to compete equally with their sighted peers in both education and work.
How to set up a Windows 11 computer for optimal screen reader performance is crucial for blind and low vision users. First, ensure that your computer meets the necessary system requirements. A powerful processor and sufficient RAM are essential for smooth operation. Additionally, installing the latest updates for Windows 11 is important. These updates include crucial security patches and performance improvements. If you find you need to remap a key to say, acquire an applications key on your keyboard, you can do that yourself.
Next, customize the display settings to enhance visibility. Adjusting the screen resolution and scaling ensures that text and icons are easier to read. Moreover, enabling high contrast mode can make the interface more accessible. This setting increases the contrast between background and text, making it easier to distinguish elements on the screen.
In addition, configuring keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve efficiency. Windows 11 offers a variety of shortcuts for navigating the system. Customizing these shortcuts allows for quicker access to frequently used features. Furthermore, consider enabling the on-screen keyboard for easier input.
How to setup Windows 11 for screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA, and Narrator are essential tools for blind users. Ensure that your chosen screen reader is installed and updated. It’s also important to adjust the screen reader settings to match your preferences. For instance, modifying the speech rate and verbosity can make navigation more comfortable. See second video on proper setup of windows11 settings.
Enhance Experience with AI
Moreover, installing and configuring additional assistive software can enhance your experience. Programs like MathKicker.AI and MathCat in WORD improve accessibility for mathematical content. These tools integrate seamlessly with screen readers, providing a more inclusive environment.
Lastly, securing your computer is vital. Enable strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect your data. Regularly updating your antivirus software will also safeguard your system from potential threats.
Thus, setting up a Windows 11 computer for screen reader users involves careful configuration. By following these steps, users can achieve the best performance and efficiency. This ensures a more accessible and productive computing experience.
Creating and editing math content using the Digital UEB Math & Braille Math Editor in Word with JAWS UEB Mode is a powerful tool for blind and low vision users. First, ensure that JAWS is properly installed and set to UEB (Unified English Braille) mode. This setup is crucial for accurate Braille input and output when working with mathematical content. Proper Set up of WORD is also essential.
Next, open Microsoft Word and access the Math Editor. This built-in tool allows users to create complex equations and math symbols directly within a Word document. Additionally, the integration with JAWS in UEB mode ensures that the content is accessible through Braille displays or auditory feedback.
Moreover, MathCat, a key component in this setup, enhances compatibility between Word’s Math Editor and JAWS. It allows users to seamlessly transition between editing in UEB and accessing the content through JAWS. This integration provides a smooth experience, whether reading equations line by line or navigating through complex math expressions.
Mastering Digital UEB Math Transition
Transitioning to digital math tools like this one offers significant advantages. Blind and low vision users can now work on math assignments in real-time, alongside their sighted peers. Furthermore, the ability to edit and review mathematical content directly in Word makes this tool invaluable in educational and professional settings. With the necessary instruction, anyone can complete math in WORD.
For those new to this tool, this website & our YouTube video tutorials are available. These videos provide step-by-step guidance on setting up and using the Digital UEB Math & Braille Math Editor. They demonstrate how to navigate through Word with JAWS in UEB mode, making the learning process straightforward.
In conclusion, the Digital UEB Math & Braille Math Editor in Word with JAWS UEB Mode is a game-changing tool. It empowers users to create, edit, and access math content efficiently, ensuring full participation in math-intensive activities.
To optimize your Gmail experience with JAWS, it’s important to first set up keyboard shortcuts in Gmail’s settings. This initial step ensures that you can navigate and perform actions quickly using JAWS. If you notice your computer is not working well, then we highly suggest optimizing it for Windows with screen readers. Here is a parent setting it up with a trainer if you would like more direction.
Start by opening Gmail in your web browser. Once inside, press the letter “G” followed by “S” to go directly to the settings. Next, use the “Tab” key to navigate through the settings menu until you reach the “See all settings” option. Press “Enter” to access the full settings menu.
In the settings menu, continue pressing “Tab” until you reach the “Keyboard shortcuts” section. Here, you’ll find an option to turn on keyboard shortcuts. Press the spacebar to enable this feature. Enabling keyboard shortcuts is crucial as it allows you to execute commands more efficiently, which is particularly beneficial when using JAWS.
After turning on keyboard shortcuts, press “Tab” to navigate to the “Save Changes” button and press “Enter.” This action ensures that your settings are saved, and keyboard shortcuts are now active in Gmail.
With keyboard shortcuts enabled, you can now easily compose, send, and manage emails using JAWS. For example, press “C” to open the compose window, where you can start drafting an email. Use the “Tab” key to move between the “To,” “Subject,” and “Body” fields, and use JAWS commands to review your text as you type.
Finally, once your email is ready, press “Tab” to reach the “Send” button and press “Enter.” JAWS will confirm that your email has been sent. With keyboard shortcuts active, you can also quickly navigate through your inbox, search for emails, and perform other tasks, making your Gmail experience much more efficient.
In conclusion for most crucial item, is setting up keyboard shortcuts in Gmail which is the first essential step to using JAWS effectively. This setup ensures that you can send emails quickly and navigate Gmail seamlessly, enhancing productivity for blind and low vision users. For addition information see TechVision YouTube channel. While you advance your tech, include your Braille reading speed skills.
To emboss graphs and insert them into math work, start by using the Desmos graphing calculator. Desmos offers an intuitive platform for creating precise graphs, making it ideal for educational settings. Begin by plotting the necessary mathematical functions or data points on Desmos. The calculator’s user-friendly interface allows for easy manipulation and customization of graphs, ensuring they meet your exact needs.
After creating the graph, export it as an image. Desmos provides options to download the graph in various formats, such as PNG. Once downloaded, you can insert this image into your math document. Whether you’re using Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or another word processor, simply embed the graph as an image. This step integrates the visual data directly into your math work, making it more comprehensive for both teachers and students.
Next, prepare the document for embossing. If you’re working with visually impaired students, use software like Braille Blaster to convert the document into Braille. While the text content will convert directly, the graph requires special handling. This is where embossing comes in. By using an embosser, you can transform the visual graph into a tactile format that students can feel and understand.
Furthermore, this workflow ensures that math assignments are accessible to all students, regardless of visual ability. Teachers can also annotate the graphs before embossing, adding labels or descriptions to enhance understanding. This process not only aids in teaching but also reinforces the student’s learning experience.
The combination of Desmos for graph creation and embossing for tactile output makes for a powerful educational tool. It bridges the gap between visual and tactile learning, providing an inclusive approach to math education. By following these steps, educators can effectively integrate graphs into math work, ensuring that all students have the tools they need to succeed.
Lucas, a blind individual, demonstrates JAWS Commands using AI Descriptions and how to effectively use ChatGPT with DALL-E to generate and describe images. Starting with ChatGPT, Lucas opens the platform, which places him directly in the edit box. To navigate out, he presses the “up arrow” key. He then maximizes the screen with “Windows + up arrow,” enhancing readability for JAWS.
Next, Lucas demonstrates how to locate the DALL-E AI Description image generator by accessing the links list using Jaws Commands with “Caps Lock + F7.” He navigates to the search box using the “E” key and types “DALL-E” in all capitals, with the period included. After pressing “Enter,” he tabs through the search results until he finds the relevant link, then presses “Enter” again to open it.
Once inside the image generator, Lucas describes the process of inputting a prompt. He emphasizes the importance of being specific, including details about the setting, characters, and art style. For instance, he generates an image of a wizard casting a spell on a cliff-side in a realistic art style. By pressing “Enter,” the image generation process begins, typically producing two images by default. He demonstrates how to make the inaccessible-accessible.
To download an image, Lucas uses “Shift + B” to find the “Show Image” button, followed by pressing “Enter” and then down arrow to the “Download Image” button. He encounters a warning about the dialog not being focused, while the download proceeds. Remember to Email your beautiful creations to someone also.
For image descriptions, Lucas follows a similar process to find the “Image Description Assistant” link. After inputting his request and attaching the image file, he waits for the description to generate. To review the description, Lucas uses “Shift + G” to jump to the top of the graphic, then down arrows to read it. This methodical approach allows Lucas to create detailed images and receive comprehensive descriptions efficiently.
AI has transformed how screen reader users access their world, MathKicker.AI is a powerful MATH app that allows top level Math work. Do not let Low Vision issues or legal blindness stop you from accelerating in school.
Dr. Robinson explains how to navigate the new Google Drive update using a screen reader, focusing on commands that will be essential after the August 1st, 2024 update shortcuts. She begins by demonstrating basic navigation through Google Drive, emphasizing the importance of learning the updated keyboard shortcuts-use FireFox when you have Chrome and Edge Chromium issues with navigation. The point it, same commands but use a different browser when 1 or 2 decide not to work well. Then if you have done that and still issues exist, set up computer to work the best with screen readers.
To start, Dr. Robinson guides users through accessing the settings menu with “Control + Shift + S,” where updates and new keyboard shortcuts can be found. She highlights the automatic update that will apply the new shortcuts starting August 1st. After closing the settings menu with “Escape,” she demonstrates navigating Google Drive using the “Alt + G” command, followed by “N” to access the navigation region.
New Google Drive Update
Dr. Robinson continues by explaining first-letter navigation which presently only works in Firefox but as updates occur Chrome and Edge should start to work again also. List View is where users can jump to items by pressing the first letter of the item’s name. She shows how this method, combined with the updated shortcuts, makes navigation faster and more efficient. For example, to create a new document, she uses “Alt + C” followed by “T,” which quickly opens a new Google Doc and other google items.
She then discusses how to use the “Alt + A” command to open the context menu, allowing users to perform actions like downloading, sharing, or renaming files. The context menu provides additional options, accessible via hotkeys. Dr. Robinson points out the ease of using these commands once learned, making it simpler to manage files within Google Drive.
To demonstrate the process, she creates a new presentation with “Alt + C” followed by “P.” After navigating back to her list view with “Alt + G” followed by “I,” she explains how to use the context menu for specific actions. Dr. Robinson concludes by encouraging users to familiarize themselves with these new commands, ensuring a smooth transition.
Google Drive navigation is more intuitive and accessible for those using screen readers if you use the browser that works . Learn Google Slides navigation with complicated slides to improve navigation and echo also.
Dr. Robinson provides a detailed guide on completing a quadratic formula in Microsoft Word using UEB math and JAWS screen reader. She breaks down each step, ensuring users can follow along and understand how to effectively utilize the powerful math editor in Word with JAWS.
Dr. Robinson begins the tutorial by explaining how to setup JAWS, for UEB math. She guides users through configuring JAWS settings to ensure correct output in the math editor. For additional help with settings, users can refer to a previous video.
After the setup, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to open the math editor in Word using “Alt + Equals.” This command opens the editor, allowing users to start inputting equations. She explains that users will enter the quadratic formula character by character, ensuring they follow along slowly.
To illustrate, Dr. Robinson uses the example A = 1, B = -8, and C = 7. She guides users in entering this formula into the editor, stressing the importance of accuracy and correct use of parentheses. Parentheses are crucial for ensuring the editor interprets the formula correctly, especially with complex expressions.
Navigate Equation Editor in WORD
Next, she shows how to navigate Word’s ribbon using “Alt + J” to access the equation tools. Once there, users can select the quadratic formula from the options. Dr. Robinson encourages users to explore other built-in equations in Word, as they can simplify creating complex mathematical expressions.
While inputting the quadratic formula, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to use “Alt + J + C” to convert the formula from linear to professional format. This conversion makes the equation visually appealing and easy to read, which is important when sharing or printing the document.
Throughout the tutorial, Dr. Robinson emphasizes showing every step of the equation-solving process. She explains how to break down the quadratic formula into components using the math editor, making each step clear and easy to follow. This approach helps users understand the logic behind solving quadratic equations and reinforces the importance of accuracy.
Troubleshoot common Issues
Finally, Dr. Robinson offers tips on troubleshooting common issues for UEB math and JAWS, like automatic capitalization in Word. She shows how to adjust autocorrect settings to prevent unwanted changes in mathematical expressions, ensuring equations remain correct and properly formatted.
By the end of the tutorial, users understand how to complete a quadratic formula in Word using UEB math and JAWS. Dr. Robinson’s clear instructions and focus on accuracy make this an essential resource for improving skills in assistive technology for math tasks. Users can continue learning in creating graphs in excel.
Dr. Robinson guides users through setting up Braille mode via Default profile by typing it in the edit box. She types “Braille Mode” in the search box, and F6 to access different settings. She uses “F6” to navigate to the desired options, then “Alt + F” to select language profiles. To access MathCat option via alt D to details then tab to Nemeth and change to MathCat then OK.
Dr. Robinson explains how to select the correct Braille code, such as UEB math with JAWS or Nemeth code. She walks through the process of applying these settings and closing the settings dialog.
Once set up, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to solve math problems using JAWS in Word. Dr Robinson explains the process of entering equations using “Alt + Equals” to open the math editor. She highlights how to type out equations, like “X squared plus 3 equals 11.” Then how to navigate through the math content using keyboard commands.
She also explains complex math using UEB Math with Jaws, such as using square roots and other mathematical symbols, by using Unicode and LaTeX commands. Dr. Robinson shows the equation tools in Word by pressing “Alt + J” E to equation menu. Then explains how to convert equations between professional and linear formats using “Alt + JE + C.”
Throughout the tutorial, Dr. Robinson ensures users understand the commands necessary for navigating and editing math content effectively. She also provides troubleshooting tips, such as using the Math Viewer with insert space + = . This gives more detailed navigation of hearing each symbol, particularly useful for more complex equations.
Dr. Robinson concludes by encouraging users to explore more advanced math problems and settings. This ensures that they can confidently use JAWS for UEB math in various applications. If you experience computer issues in general, set it up to work the most efficiently with screen readers.
Student Hayes has issues completing math in WORD as her label number do not read. Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to resolve issues with auto-numbering in Word. She first identifies that automatic numbering is causing issues for the student using dot 2 and space in the Brailliant Braille display, especially when numbers appear incorrectly on the Braille display. To address this, she instructs to press “Alt + F” to open the File menu, followed by “T” for options, then “P” for proofing, and finally “Alt + A” to access AutoCorrect options.
She guides users through unchecking five specific boxes that affect text formatting, ensuring the correct settings are applied. Dr. Robinson emphasizes the importance of turning off automatic numbered lists, which often causes unexpected changes in documents.
After confirming the settings, she instructs on how to apply these changes by pressing “Enter” to save them. This step ensures the document is correctly formatted and ready for the student to use in MathKicker.AI.
Braille Viewer to accurately solve math problems
Next, Dr. Robinson advises turning on the Braille viewer. Using the Jaws context menu and U, to navigate to the utilities to access the Braille viewer. Braille viewer allows the teacher to view the math problems correctly on student screen in Braille. While student uses fingers to read display.
Then Dr. Robinson explains how to use the Math Viewer by pressing “Insert + Space + Equals.” This enables the student to navigate through the math content character by character. This command helps ensure accuracy in reading and solving math problems, especially when using Braille displays.
Finally, she explains how to open the Braille Math Editor now that auto numbering issues are resolved. Eventually, she will learn how to use split braille on her display. Student can braille equations in Nemeth code, and ensure that each step of the problem is correct to accurately solve math problems. Dr. Robinson highlights how the Math Editor will not accept incomplete or incorrect inputs. The student cannot close the editor without fixing errors. This method reinforces correct equation formatting. It ensures students accurately solve math problems using auditory and Braille math tools.
Teachers can Slow or stop AI cheating both in the classroom and at home through strategic measures. In the classroom, lock down browsers effectively prevent students from accessing unauthorized websites or AI tools during exams. These browsers restrict students to a single screen, blocking external resources. Additionally, teachers should design assignments that require critical thinking and personalized responses. Such tasks are challenging for AI to complete accurately, as they demand unique, context-specific answers.
To further Slow or Stop AI cheating in class and home, teachers should incorporate oral assessments and apps like Khan academy. These require students to verbally explain their answers or spell out terms, making it difficult to rely on AI-generated content-Video details here. Monitoring classroom activity is crucial as well. By actively observing students’ screens, teachers can spot hidden screens or content that doesn’t match a student’s usual work.
At home, teachers can assign open-ended projects that require creativity and personal reflection. These assignments are less likely to be successfully completed by AI. Requiring students to submit drafts or process documentation ensures they engage with the material and don’t merely copy answers. Time-limited tests can reduce the likelihood of students using AI tools during online exams. By setting strict time limits and challenging questions, teachers can make quick AI lookups impractical.
Teachers should also utilize plagiarism and AI detection tools to identify suspicious content to curb classroom AI cheating. Follow-up video calls or in-person meetings, where students explain their answers, can verify that they genuinely understand the material. Engaging parents is another key strategy. By encouraging parental involvement, teachers can help monitor the home environment and promote honest academic practices.
Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to set up a Spanish language profile in JAWS for a perfect JAWS Spanish language setup. This focuses on accessibility for Spanish-speaking students or students learning a 2nd language. She begins by explaining the differences in braille capitalization across regions. In European countries, dot six is used for capitals, while the U.S. and other areas use dots four and six. The braille display must output the text correctly in Word to ensure accurate reading.
Dr. Robinson guides users through the JAWS settings and starts with inserting a language profile. She uses specific keyboard commands, such as “Insert 6,” to access the JAWS settings center. She emphasizes the importance of setting the default language to Spanish (Spain International). This ensures that the braille output is in Spanish Grade 1. After adjusting the settings, she double-checks everything in Word to confirm that the changes have held.
Next, Dr. Robinson explains how to switch between languages. She advises setting up multiple language profiles. This allows quick toggling between them using commands like “Ctrl+Shift+Windows+L” or specific braille display commands. She ensures that the students can easily switch between English and Spanish, making their work seamless and efficient. See all JAWS Spanish language Setups and other lessons here.
Throughout the setup, Dr. Robinson highlights the importance of using commands to add necessary braille dots for accurate translation. Adding dot eight ensures the correct representation of certain letters and punctuation marks. She demonstrates how to practice symbols and contractions on the braille display, ensuring students are comfortable with the layout.
Dr. Robinson mentions that a practice sheet with all the necessary symbols and contractions are available on website. The website, yourtechvision.com, offers this resource to help students reinforce their learning. This resource helps students reinforce their learning and practice braille accurately. With this setup, students can work efficiently in Word using JAWS. They will perform tasks just like their peers with the help of a Focus 40 braille display. Then progress to using this in Google Classroom
Emē, a student of Dr. Denise Robinson demonstrates how she studies Spanish vocabulary using Google Sheets with a screen reader. She starts by copying vocabulary words into Google Sheets, though typing them in directly is also an option. After setting up the sheet, she explains the importance of naming it to avoid losing any work. She uses Google Sheets similarly to how a sighted student would use flashcards. This method is an excellent example of Flashcard studying in sheets. Column A contains the English words, while Column B holds the Spanish translations.
Certainly! Here is the revised paragraph with “Emē”:
Emē introduces a “difficulty” column in Column C, where she rates how challenging each word is to remember. She assigns a value between one and five, depending on how well she recalls each word. This rating system allows her to sort the words based on difficulty later, making her study sessions more effective. This technique enhances the efficiency of flashcard studying in sheets methods.
To make the study process more efficient, Emē explains how to randomize the rows. This prevents her from memorizing the order of the words rather than learning the words themselves. She uses specific keyboard commands to select all rows and columns, then accesses the “randomize range” function through the search menu. Randomization is key for effective flashcard studying in sheets techniques.
After randomizing, Emē sorts the words by difficulty, placing the hardest words at the top for focused study. She even hides the easiest words, rated as ones, to avoid wasting time on words she already knows well. If she needs to retrieve the hidden words, she can easily unhide them using the “unhide rows” function. This is another way flashcard studying can be efficiently carried out in sheets.
Emē concludes by showing how she reviews and updates the difficulty ratings as she studies. This method allows her to keep track of her progress and focus on words that need the most attention. She highlights that this approach to flashcard studying in sheets with Google Sheets is both accessible and effective, making it a great tool for blind and visually impaired students.
Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to complete multi-level math in WORD using Braille Math Editor with JAWS. She used an algebra problem as an example. She explains that this method applies to several types of math problems. First, she highlights how transcriptionists or students can prepare algebra equations using the Alt + Equals command to insert math symbols directly in Word. Once the equation is ready, the blind student can easily solve it using a Focus 40 Braille display.
Dr. Robinson shows how students can work within the Braille Math Editor. By pressing Insert + Space followed by Shift + Equals, the editor opens, and the math problem appears ready for solving. She mentions that students can choose between Nemeth code or Computer Braille, depending on their preference. Both modes allow for precise calculations and input, enabling them to complete multi-level math problems efficiently across multiple levels.
As the student works through the problem, they can use Braille commands like 4-5-6 Space to navigate to the end of the problem and add a dot 6 for separating steps with commas. This method keeps the equation organized, allowing the student to solve the problem in multiple lines, just as their sighted peers would. By checking the Braille display frequently, students ensure accuracy while solving multi-level math equations and maintaining neatness.
Finalizing and Reviewing Work to complete multi-level math
Once the math is complete, the student hits Enter to insert the solution into Microsoft Word. Dr. Robinson uses Ctrl + L to align the text to the left after confirming correct spacing and formatting. She resolves errors, such as unnecessary commas or misalignments, by reviewing each line. Editing line by line ensures the final product is both clean and accurate. The process concludes with a perfectly formatted, multi-level math solution, efficiently done using the Braille Math Editor, thus completing the task effectively.
This setup provides blind students with the tools to complete complex multi-level math work just like their peers, ensuring accessibility and ease in academic settings. More math lessons here.
Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to use the PixBlaster graphic embosser, showing its ease of use and efficiency for blind students. The PixBlaster produces tactile graphics, which students can emboss in either contracted or uncontracted braille. Additionally, PixBlaster is well-known as a graphic embosser with Tiger integration.
Using the Graphic Embosser with Tiger Software
To begin, Dr. Robinson turns on the PixBlaster (also called the Columbia Embosser) by pressing the power button and explains that it can connect wirelessly or via USB. She uses a USB connection for convenience. Next, she opens Microsoft Word and navigates using Alt + N to insert an image. She selects P for pictures, then O for online pictures. Dr. Robinson recommends searching for an outlined image, such as a Christmas tree, to avoid clutter in tactile graphics using the graphic embosser with Tiger.
Once the image is inserted, she accesses the picture settings with Alt + JP for picture format. To adjust the size, she presses SZ to open the size menu, locking the aspect ratio with Alt + A. She then adjusts the height and width using H for height and W for width. Dr. Robinson notes that students should always choose the largest dimension when resizing with their graphic embosser that uses Tiger software.
After inserting the graphic, Dr. Robinson types “Merry Christmas” and adds an exclamation mark using the Tiger software. She explains that it is critical to save the file before embossing. Once saved, she uses Ctrl + P to print the embossed graphic, ensuring the printer is set to the PixBlaster. Dr. Robinson advises tearing off the embossed paper by pulling it in a “V” shape to avoid damage created by the graphic embosser with integrated Tiger software.
Finally, she shows the completed embossed graphic, noting how clear and easy it is to read. The PixBlaster (Columbia), in combination with Tiger software, offers blind students a simple way to produce both tactile graphics and braille, enhancing their learning experience with the help of a graphic embosser with Tiger technology. Other Graphic embosser with Tiger Lessons.
Setting up Spanish Braille using JAWS-enabled Braille display involves a few key steps. First, configure the Braille profile in JAWS by pressing Insert + 6 to open the settings center. Navigate to the Braille mode settings and select Spanish (Spain International) as the default language. This ensures the Braille output is in Spanish Grade 1. You can quickly switch between languages using Ctrl + Shift + Windows + L or specific Braille display commands. Additionally, practice using symbols and contractions on the Braille display to become comfortable with the layout. This setup allows visually impaired users to work efficiently in Spanish, ensuring accurate Braille representation and seamless integration with their tasks.
Spanish-Española 1. Jaws settings: Set up braille profile – insert 6 (ctrl shift D for default but after you complete these steps, open settings again, to make sure they hold for just Word settings) type “braille mode” down twice to hear it, F6, alt g to languages and setup your choices.
This lesson is Spain (international) Input and Output are Spanish Grade 1
2. Tab to profile languages and set those up and enter to close Jaws settings
3. Alt 8 to make sure dots 7,8 show on display-accept and close settings
1. Set up Voice profile in Jaws-open context menu, options, voices, add a profile
1. In Word-change voice quickly: 2 options: on keyboard- ctrl shift window L to change profile or on Focus -2,3,4,5,7, space to change languages)
2. Insert+ctrl+S to change to Spanish profile or to other language
3. G+7+space on Focus to computer braille (which will output Spanish grade 1)– capital is dot 7 under capital letter on display
Práctica:
á 1,2,3,5,6
é 2,3,4,6
í 3,4
ó 3,4,6
ú 2,3,4,5,6
ü 1,2,5,6,8
ñ 1,2,4,5,6, 8
Punctuation for Spanish Braille using JAWS
! 2,3,5, 7
inverted ! is 2,3,5, 7, 8
and
. is dot 3
and
, is dot 2
? is dot 2, 6
inverted ? is 2,6,7
on keyboard:
Lower Case Letters
á (lower case a, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter a é (lower case e, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter e í (lower case i, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter i ó (lower case o, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter o ú (lower case u, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then the letter u ñ (lower case n, tilde accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + ~ (tilde), then the letter n ü (lower case u, diaeresis accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + : (colon), then the letter u
Upper Case Letters
Á (upper case A, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + a É (upper case E, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + e Í (upper case I, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + i Ó (upper case O, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + o Ú (upper case U, acute accent) = Press Ctrl + ‘ (apostrophe), then Shift + u Ñ (upper case N, tilde accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + ~ (tilde), then Shift + n Ü (upper case U, diaeresis accent) = Press Ctrl + Shift + : (colon), then Shift + u
Track Changes in Microsoft Word is an essential tool for collaborative editing and document management. It allows multiple users to make and review edits, providing a clear, organized record of all changes. This feature is invaluable for maintaining the integrity of the original document while incorporating feedback from various contributors. By visually displaying insertions, deletions, and comments, Track Changes enhances transparency and accountability in the editing process. It also simplifies the task of accepting or rejecting modifications, ensuring that the final document meets the desired standards. The typical use is for students to create work and teachers to edit with comments, and it is possible to easily track changes with commands. This is easily done with any screen reader.
Track Changes with Commands in Microsoft Word is a powerful tool for collaborative editing and document management. Here are some key details on its importance and usage:
Key Benefits
Transparency: Track Changes provides a clear, organized record of all modifications made to a document.
Accountability: By displaying who made each change, Track Changes holds contributors accountable for their edits.
Kaleigh was born with very special hands. So, whether you have 10 fingers or 2 or 3, there is always an easy way to use a braille display to control your computer.
Dr. Robinson’s video covers basic JAWS screen reader commands for Office Word, no matter what version of WORD you use. First, she opens a new document using “Ctrl + N” and teaches key formatting skills, such as right-aligning text with “Ctrl + R” and inserting the date using old and new Office commands. She emphasizes the importance of listening to the software to ensure accuracy. Dr. Robinson guides through bold, underline, and italics commands before typing and spell-checking with keyboard shortcuts. These are all Basic WORD JAWS commands you need to know.
Adjusting speech speed helps beginners better understand software. Learning commands ensures efficient and accurate work, especially Basic WORD JAWS commands.
Gain Typing Speed in WORD
To practice typing skills use a phrase like: “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.” Type it repeatedly in a Word document by starting slow to gain speed. Use the keyboard shortcuts taught in the video, such as “Ctrl + Left Arrow” and “Ctrl + Right Arrow” to move between words, and “End” to check if you’re at the end of the line. Regular practice, at least 10-15 minutes daily or more, helps build speed. Turn off autocorrect options to avoid automatic changes that may confuse the student and disrupt learning. Focus on accuracy before increasing typing speed. Mastering JAWS commands for WORD is essential for efficient practice.
Access Braille Writing and PC Devices: The year is 2000 and I am blessed with meeting 3 siblings in a family of 8. I first met the oldest daughter who was in 2nd grade grade and her sister who was in preschool. Their young brother, was just born. All 3 have a VERY rare condition called: Spondylometaphyseal dysplasia with cone rod dystrophy. This was an exciting journey with all 3. All 3 live very successful lives now.
Early Education Leads to Access Braille Writing Devices
Starting at 3 months old: First, always teach the parents right along with the child–Teamwork is key! One crucial step was ensuring he could eventually access Braille writing devices to aid in his learning journey. Teach fun games on a computer as they learn like Starfall games and Inclusive Multi-Sensory Learning Tools. If you sense a visual impairment and glasses need to be work, try: Kids Bright Eye glasses or Eye patches
Pre-teaching a blind child from an early age involves fostering foundational skills that support sensory development, spatial awareness, and independence. Here’s how you can engage with a blind child from 3 months old to 3 years old and up to 3rd Grade, ensuring they develop crucial abilities at each stage:
At 3 Months Old in general:
At this stage, it’s all about sensory exploration and exposure. A blind infant learns through touch, sound, and smell. Parents and caregivers can begin pre-teaching through activities that engage the child’s remaining senses.
Tactile Exploration: Provide different textures for the baby to feel, such as soft cloth, textured toys, and various materials. This helps them develop an understanding of their environment through touch.
Auditory Stimulation: Introduce the baby to a variety of sounds, from gentle music to the sound of voices and everyday noises. Toys that make sounds or produce vibrations can also help the child associate movements with sounds.
Bonding with Language: Talk to the baby constantly, explaining what’s happening around them. Even at this age, exposing them to language and verbal interaction is key for cognitive development.
At 1 Year Old:
By the time the child is 1 year old, they are starting to gain more control over their movements and understand their surroundings through tactile and auditory feedback. The focus at this age is on expanding their sensory awareness and motor skills.
Mobility Encouragement: Support the child as they begin to crawl or walk. Encourage them to explore safe spaces, ensuring the environment is designed for them to navigate without harm.
Hands-on Learning: Let the child interact with everyday objects, describing what they are holding. This could include toys, household items, or safe objects they encounter daily.
Cane-have a cane around his/her toys so they get acquainted with the tool
Language Development: Continue talking to the child, narrating actions and surroundings. Introduce basic concepts like hot/cold, soft/hard, and big/small, as this builds vocabulary and concept understanding. Have them touch everything, giving purpose to what they interact with always.
A 4-year-old uses the Mountbatten, and a 2nd grader uses the Braille Lite with a Braille display to access Braille writing devices.
At 3 Years Old Access Braille writing devices and start typing on computer:
At 3 years old, the blind child is ready to begin more structured learning and independent exploration. Pre-teaching during this period focuses on more complex tasks, building independence, and preparing for future skills. Begin touch-typing on keyboard of computer and using other braille devices like the MouthBatten Brailler. This student learned all of the alphabet and several contractions.
Orientation and Mobility: Begin teaching basic orientation and mobility skills, using a cane for navigation. This will help the child build confidence in moving through space.
Fine Motor Skills: Encourage fine motor development through activities like threading beads, playing with textured blocks, or using simple tactile puzzles. This helps the child develop dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Pre-Braille Exposure: Introduce early Braille awareness through tactile games or exposure to raised dots or objects. As they may not be ready to fully learn Braille, familiarization with textures and symbols helps lay the foundation for literacy. This includes touch typing on keyboard using braille on braille device like a Mouthbatten Brailler
Self-Care Skills: Teach simple self-care tasks like washing hands, dressing, and feeding themselves. These activities foster independence and help them gain confidence in daily living skills.
By consistently engaging the child’s senses and nurturing their curiosity, they will develop essential skills for future success. With each stage of growth, pre-teaching ensures they build a strong foundation. This approach prepares the child to easily learn more complex skills later, such as reading Braille, using assistive technology and navigating the world independently.
Continuing to teach a blind child in kindergarten through 2nd grade involves focusing on expanding their academic, social, and independence skills, while incorporating accessible tools and adaptive techniques. Here’s how you can approach teaching at each stage:
Kindergarten (K)-Access writing PC computers:
In kindergarten, the focus is on introducing basic academic concepts while fostering independence and confidence in social situations. This student was able to begin reading braille like his peers due to already knowing braille letters and symbols. He also know the keys on the computer to begin learning how to type out work to email to teacher. Teach how accessible Work is needed, including Math for now and later on.
Braille Literacy: Begin formal Braille instruction, introducing letters, numbers, and simple words. Use tactile books, raised alphabet cards, and manipulative’s to enhance literacy.
Orientation and Mobility: Continue reinforcing basic mobility skills such as using a cane and navigating familiar spaces like classrooms and playgrounds.
Interactive Learning: Incorporate multi-sensory learning activities, such as counting objects with tactile number lines and participating in songs or rhymes for phonics and vocabulary.
Technology Introduction: Introduce basic assistive technology, such as a Mountbatten Brailler or screen reader software, to support early writing and computer skills.
First Grade (1st Grade):
In first grade, the child should begin building on the foundations laid in kindergarten, focusing on more advanced academic and mobility skills.
Braille Proficiency: Increase fluency in Braille reading and writing. Introduce more complex words, sentences, and basic punctuation. Begin incorporating Braille reading into classroom activities.
Math Skills: Teach basic math concepts using tactile math tools like counting beads, tactile number lines, and raised math grids. Introduce early Nemeth Code for math symbols in Braille.
Social Integration: Encourage social interactions and group activities, teaching the child to collaborate with peers and practice conversational skills.
Assistive Technology Growth: Begin integrating more advanced technology, such as screen readers (e.g., JAWS or NVDA) and tactile graphics for learning new concepts.
Second Grade (2nd Grade):
By second grade, the goal is to strengthen the child’s academic abilities while fostering greater independence. His sisters immediately picked up keyboarding and were handing in all work within 2 months to teachers via email. They learned Braille reading
Advanced Braille: Continue advancing Braille reading and writing skills, incorporating full sentences and paragraphs. Increase reading speed and comprehension through practice. Teach how to braille or keyboard work on PC computer.
Math in Braille: Build on basic math skills, using tactile tools to teach addition, subtraction, and early multiplication. Enhance familiarity with the Nemeth Code for math. Teach how to output math on the computer using WORD
Independent Learning: Encourage more independent work by providing opportunities to complete assignments using accessible technology. Allow the child to practice retrieving and saving work on a computer or braille device.
Orientation and Mobility: Further develop mobility skills by teaching navigation in unfamiliar environments. Practicing independent travel in controlled settings, such as the school campus or nearby park is essential.
Assistive Technology Growth: Continue integrating more advanced technology, with screen readers (e.g., JAWS or NVDA) so they can advance om speed to keep up with outputting work with their peers.
Throughout kindergarten through 2nd grade, regular collaboration with teachers, mobility instructors, and other specialists is essential. Tailor instruction to the child’s progress and ensure their curriculum is fully accessible to set them up for long-term success. This type of collaboration must continue throughout school to Access Braille writing devices and PC Computers.
Computer Local Admin access is Crucial at all education levels. Dr. Robinson, an Assistive Technology and IT specialist, sets up, maintains, and controls all the computers used in TechVision programs while TechVision Team continues teaching students to manage their own technology. She emphasizes the importance of blind students having local admin access on their school computers so they can make necessary updates and changes to their laptops as needed.
Firstly, she highlights that anti-virus software like Kaspersky or Sophos often interferes with screen readers. Instead, Dr. Robinson recommends using Malwarebytes with Microsoft Defender, as it provides strong protection without disrupting screen reader functionality. Having Computer Local Admin access ensures students can implement these software changes.
Dr. Robinson also explains the need for screen readers such as JAWS. Schools often filter out essential websites and programs like Freedom Scientific, which students require for their studies. With local admin access, students can update their screen readers and related software, which is necessary to keep their devices running smoothly. These updates are crucial and happen every few months. Computer Local Admin access allows students to manage these updates efficiently.
In addition, students must manage their desktops efficiently. They need to pin important programs, such as JAWS, to the taskbar for quick access and adjust their settings without assistance. Pinning their school sites to the desktop make quick access to any site. Through the context menu, students can navigate and personalize their desktop to meet their needs.
Computer Local Admin access to Applications Key on desktop to access anything on the computer
The run dialog box is another essential tool with CTRL+R. Students need to clear temporary files, which can slow down screen readers. Since screen readers are memory-intensive, removing these files improves both the computer’s speed and network performance. Computer Local Admin access is required for these maintenance tasks.
Dr. Robinson further emphasizes the importance of Office 365, especially for math tasks. Using the math editor, students can create and solve equations that read seamlessly on a braille display. This access is crucial for academic success, particularly in STEM subjects.
Lastly, Dr. Robinson stresses the necessity of file explorer -Windows+E and Bluetooth settings. Without a mouse, blind students rely on file explorer to organize their files. Bluetooth access is also essential for reconnecting braille displays and other devices.
In summary, Dr. Robinson believes local admin rights are essential for blind students to manage their technology independently, keep their devices updated, and fully engage in their education. This allows them full access for a lifetime. The TechVision Team ensures students learn essential skills to manage and update their devices independently, preparing them for a lifetime of technological adaptation. As technology evolves, these skills are crucial. Computer Local Admin access is vital for securing and maintaining employment so they know the updates needed, in an increasingly digital world.
Math for all ages, Math Team, Dr. Robinson, along with Professor Betsey, Campbell Rutherford (teacher intern), led the session. Nate Kile (Access Tech Specialist) was the moderator. Math Team emphasized the importance of ensuring blind students can access their technology independently and efficiently. Nate Kile assisted by handling participant questions during the presentation, allowing attendees to type inquiries in the Zoom chat box. Mr Kile would ask the Math Team from the virtual attendees.
Each presenter built on the others’ lessons. Dr. Robinson began with elementary math training skills and how JAWS and other assistive technologies play crucial roles in blind students’ education. Teaching math for all ages, she typed out typically math problems in elementary school to show audience how easily math is completed in WORD. Nate provided opportunities for participants to unmute themselves using Alt + A or Alt + M to ask questions.
Math for all Ages: Dr Robinson
The Math Team turned off their videos to optimize bandwidth. When teaching virtually, turning off video offers better bandwidth for a flow of uninterrupted instruction. Dr. Robinson started the discussion by running JAWS, a screen reader. She explained how to troubleshoot JAWS issues, recommending minimizing programs and restarting the software for optimal performance.
The session highlighted key JAWS commands, such as Windows + D for quick access to the desktop. Dr. Robinson demonstrated how blind students could use Braille displays for math, including Nemeth code. She showed how blind students control their computers by personalizing settings like screen readers and Bluetooth. Customizing the setup is essential for supporting math learning at all ages.
Math for all ages math formulas in Word
Math for all Ages: Professor Betsey
Professor Betsey demonstrated how to effectively use Braille displays, including advanced setups for students. She went into MathType and LaTex and how to use advanced Math techniques to accomplish all math levels. She emphasized the importance of maintaining accessibility and autonomy for students through personalized settings. As a college-level math professor, she explains that using a PC for math enables full inclusion of blind students. Prof. Betsey emphasizes that this technology allows blind students to participate equally in all aspects of their education. This approach supports the goal of providing math for all ages.
Math for all Ages: Campbell
Campbell Rutherford, a teacher intern, demonstrated how to integrate graphing and mathematical functions using accessible technology for blind students. Campbell began by demonstrating how to write a function in Word using LaTeX. She then transitioned to graphing that function in Desmos, an online graphing calculator. Using her braille display and screen reader, she input and analyzed the graph. Campbell explained how blind students can explore mathematical properties like intercepts and undefined points. After reviewing the graph, she took a screenshot and pasted it into a Word document. This tied together the written mathematical properties and the visual representation. Throughout, Campbell stressed the importance of accessible math for students of all ages.
Throughout the session, the Math Team emphasized the importance of managing constant software updates. They explained how providing local admin rights empowers students to update their programs and devices independently. This in-turn prepares them for both academic success and future employment. The TechVision team’s approach ensures that students can fully access their education and maintain control of their technology. This ultimately sets them up for long-term success but especially the STEM field. More Math Lessons here:
Miss Taylin and Dr. Robinson addressed two common accessibility issues students face while navigating educational tools with JAWS. First, they resolved the issue of characters not being heard when typed, which prevents users from verifying their input. After adjusting the typing echo settings in JAWS, they enabled the device to read both characters and words aloud, providing better control and feedback during typing. Fixing Jaws typing echo significantly improved user experience. On the fly, you can also insert + 2 to change echo options.
The second issue involved difficulties navigating through web links in the classroom browser, with JAWS sometimes reporting “no form fields” or “no lists available.” The problem arises when both the virtual and PC cursors are not enabled. Dr. Robinson explained that the virtual cursor is essential for browsing web pages, while the PC cursor helps manage navigation within a page. Miss Taylin accessed the links list and navigated classroom content efficiently by using “Insert + Z” to enable the virtual cursor. She ensured the PC cursor was active with the command “Insert + ;” which improved her browsing experience. Fixing Jaws typing and echo settings along with other settings changes, enhances productivity.
Jaws settings and set default to permanently make changes to typing echo
Dr. Robinson emphasized the need to regularly check both cursor settings whenever JAWS encounters issues. This practice ensures smooth and uninterrupted navigation for users. Additionally, these steps empower students using screen readers to interact more effectively with digital learning platforms. These adjustments create an efficient workflow for students to complete assignments and navigate classroom tools seamlessly. Overall, addressing the issue of fixing Jaws typing echo and other settings ensure that students can fully participate in their learning environment with complete accessibility.
Dr. Betsey Doane shared her experience teaching math for over 50 years and the importance of making math accessible to all students, including those with visual impairments. She began by introducing the software MathType, essential for creating accessible math content. The software integrates into Word and allows users to write math that is accessible to both screen readers and braille displays. Her efforts truly embody the concept of Advanced Math Made Accessible.
Dr. Doane explained the basics of LaTeX, a text-based language used for writing math. She demonstrated how to input and translate common math expressions such as fractions, square roots, and equations using LaTeX in Word. Her instructions included using the Focus 40 Braille Display and ensuring proper configurations for students to view math content in braille. This approach makes advanced math more accessible for everyone.
LaTex using Mathtype to insert perfect Advanced math made accessible
She emphasized the importance of understanding both the visual and non-visual ways of presenting math, highlighting that students need the right software and commands to work effectively. By using LaTeX and MathType, both sighted and blind students can access and solve math problems, ensuring inclusion in any classroom setting. This makes advanced math accessible and easier to understand.
She highlighted the use of MathType software, which integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Word, allowing users to create and present math content that is accessible through screen readers like JAWS and braille displays like the Focus 40. Dr. Doane explained how MathType enables students and educators to write complex equations, such as fractions, square roots, and exponents, in both visual and non-visual formats. This ensures that blind students can access the same content as their sighted peers, making advanced math more accessible.
Advanced Math Made Accessible with LaTex
Dr. Doane also provided an introduction to LaTeX, a powerful text-based language used for writing mathematical expressions. She demonstrated how to write math using LaTeX syntax, such as using backslashes for commands like fractions and square roots. By using LaTeX in Word with MathType, math content can be rendered correctly on both screen readers and braille displays, making it easier for blind students to follow along in class and complete assignments. This is another way to make advanced math accessible.
Furthermore, Dr. Doane stressed the importance of configuring braille displays correctly, ensuring that input is set to computer braille and output is set to grade 2. She provided step-by-step instructions for adjusting these settings on the Focus 40 Braille Display, ensuring that students can navigate math content effectively, contributing to the overall goal of making advanced math accessible.
In conclusion, Dr. Doane encouraged educators to adopt these tools and techniques to create an inclusive learning environment where both sighted and blind students can excel in mathematics. Her detailed instructions and practical advice offer a clear path toward accessible math education for all.
Years ago, Aubrey was just learning how to learn remotely. Dr Robinson lived close by so was able to come over in person to help her with skills and hand under hand and hand over hand as needed to learn position of fingers. A major part of her lessons is to learn to do work on braille display and computer with keyboard shortcuts. This video is her just learning how to do math in WORD.
To answer a Zoom call using keyboard shortcuts when on a braille display and computer, you can use the following:
These shortcuts help you manage calls efficiently without needing to use a mouse. A braille display and computer can make these tasks smoother.
Here are some additional keyboard shortcuts that Aubrey learned to enhance her navigation and accessibility experience:
General Web Navigation on braille display and computer
Ctrl + L or Alt + D: Focus on the address bar.
Ctrl + T: Open a new tab when using a braille display and/or computer.
Ctrl + W: Close the current tab.
Ctrl + Shift + T: Reopen the last closed tab.
Ctrl + Tab: Switch to the next tab.
Ctrl + Shift + Tab: Switch to the previous tab.
Ctrl + R or F5: Refresh the current page.
Ctrl + F: Open the find bar to search within the page on your braille display and computer setup.
Screen Reader Specific
Insert + F7: Open the links list in JAWS.
Insert + F6: Open the headings list in JAWS.
Insert + Down Arrow: Start reading continuously from the current position in JAWS.
Ctrl + Alt + Arrow Keys: Navigate by character, word, or line in NVDA for better synchronization with your braille display and computer.
Aubrey using braille display and computer, to learn how to complete math in WORD
Windows Accessibility commands for display and computer
Windows Key + U: Open the Ease of Access Center.
Windows Key + Plus (+): Turn on Magnifier and zoom in.
Windows Key + Minus (-): Zoom out with Magnifier.
Windows Key + Ctrl + N: Open Narrator settings.
Windows Key + Ctrl + O: Turn on the On-Screen Keyboard.
Text Editing
Ctrl + C: Copy selected text.
Ctrl + X: Cut selected text.
Ctrl + V: Paste copied or cut text.
Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action.
Ctrl + Y: Redo the last undone action.
These shortcuts can help you navigate more efficiently and make your web browsing and computer use more accessible. If you need more specific shortcuts or have other questions, feel free to ask!
You want to Rebuild Microsoft Word Template when you close WORD and it starts to ask: There are changes to the Normal Template, “Do you want to save the normal template?” You always want to say “NO” because if you do not it will start opening with the last work you did in it. If you want WORD to STOP asking that question or fix your goof, here is how to rebuild that Normal Template
Commands to rebuild Word template when it gets messed up and constantly asks if you want to save it.Other Lessons to fix Tech
Rebuild Microsoft Word Template with RUN
Open the Run Dialog Box:
Press Windows + R.
Type %appdata%\Microsoft\Templates and press Enter.
Delete the Normal Template:
In the opened folder, find normal.dotm (or the equivalent for your Office version).
Select it and press Delete.
Reopen Word:
This action will rebuild the normal template automatically.
Reconfigure Your Settings:
Fonts:
Press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box.
Set your desired font (e.g., Times New Roman, 12 pt).
Press Alt + D to set as default for all documents.
Paragraph Spacing:
Press Alt + O, then P to open the Paragraph dialog box.
Adjust spacing settings (e.g., single spacing).
Press Alt + D to set as default for all documents.
This process ensures your Word template is reset and configured to your preferences. Here are some more fixes you can do
Microsoft Word MLA format for papers is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures consistency and clarity in academic writing. This makes it easier for readers to follow and understand the content. MLA format provides a standardized way to cite sources. This helps prevent plagiarism by giving proper credit to original authors. This format also allows students to present their work in a professional manner, which is crucial for academic credibility. Additionally, adhering to MLA guidelines demonstrates attention to detail and a commitment to academic integrity. These attributes are highly valued in educational settings. Overall, MLA format helps maintain a high standard of scholarly communication and fosters a culture of respect for intellectual property. If WORD is not working properly-Rebuild it!
Set up an MLA format in Microsoft Word, follow these steps:
Set the Margins:
Press Alt + P to open the Layout tab.
Press M to open the Margins menu.
Select Normal to set 1-inch margins on all sides.
Set the Font and Font Size:
Press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box.
Select Times New Roman and set the font size to 12.
Set Double Line Spacing:
Press Ctrl + A to select all text.
Press Ctrl + 2 to set double-spacing.
Set the Header:
Alt V + H auto opens Header and down arrow to footer if needed
or Press Alt + N to open the Insert tab.
Press H to open the Header menu and select Blank.
Type your last name, press Space, then press Alt + Shift + P to insert the page number.
Include Key Information on the First Page:
Type your name, instructor’s name, course, and date on separate lines.
Center-align the title of your paper by pressing Ctrl + E.
Format the Works Cited Page:
Press Ctrl + Enter to insert a new page.
Type “Works Cited” and center-align it.
Use a hanging indent for each citation by pressing Ctrl + T.
When sighted parents’ setup computer for their young child, they learn the commands and how to follow through with lessons after the TechVision Team completes working with their child.
Shared Learning Experience: Learning together can be a bonding experience, making the process enjoyable and less isolating for the child. It also demonstrates to the child that their parents are invested in their education and success.
Here are some general essential keyboard commands to set up and navigate the JAWS screen reader:
Starting and Basic Navigation
Start JAWS:
Press Ctrl + Alt + J or if pinned to taskbar Windows 3 on this computer
Activate PC Cursor:
Press Numpad +.
Activate JAWS Cursor:
Press Numpad -.
Silence Current Speech Output:
Press Ctrl.
Help Sighted Parents Setup Navigating Web Pages
List Links:
Press Insert + F7.
List Headings:
Press Insert + F6.
List Form Fields:
Press Insert + F5.
Next Heading:
Press H.
Next Link:
Press Tab.
Previous Link:
Press Shift + Tab.
Reading Text
Read Next Line:
Press Down Arrow.
Read Previous Line:
Press Up Arrow.
Read Current Line:
Press Insert + Up Arrow.
Read Next Word:
Press Insert + Right Arrow.
Read Previous Word:
Press Insert + Left Arrow.
Forms and Tables
Enter Forms Mode:
Press Enter.
Exit Forms Mode:
Press Numpad +.
Navigate Table Cells:
Press Ctrl + Alt + Arrow Keys.
Sighted Parents Setup computer successfully and if your child is Visually Impaired use this setup to SEE computer better
Raveena shows how to fix basic computer and screen problems and then explains how to install the Perky Duck braille program. She starts by helping users solve common computer or display issues with easy steps. After that, Raveena Fixes Computer Issues by walking through downloading and setting up the Perky Duck program, which helps create and translate braille. Her simple instructions make it easier for students and teachers to use the program and keep their devices running smoothly.
To upload a file in the Perky Duck braille transcription program, you can follow these steps using keyboard commands. Raveena Fixes Computer Issues by providing clear steps to follow:
Open Perky Duck:
Press Windows Key, type “Perky Duck”, and press Enter to open the program.
Open File Dialog:
Press Alt + F to open the File menu.
Press O to select “Open”.
Navigate to Your File:
Use the arrow keys to navigate through your directories.
Press Enter to open folders.
Once you find your file, press Enter to upload it.
Perky Duck free braille translator
These commands should help you efficiently upload a file in Perky Duck. If you need more detailed instructions or have any other questions, feel free to ask! That’s how Raveena Fixes Computer Issues efficiently. Other ways to fix your computer
Formatting an APA format paper writing style using keyboard commands is an efficient way to create a properly structured document without relying on a mouse. By using shortcuts within programs like Microsoft Word, you can quickly adjust key elements such as margins, fonts, line spacing, and indentation. This guide outlines the essential steps, including setting up the title page, organizing headings, and formatting the references page. By mastering these keyboard commands, you can streamline the process of formatting your APA paper and ensure it meets academic standards.
To format an APA paper using keyboard commands, you can use several standard shortcuts within word processors like Microsoft Word. Follow these tips to make APA format paper writing easier:
1. Setup the Document in APA format paper writing style
Margins: The default margins in Word are typically 1 inch, but you can check by pressing Alt + P, then M, and selecting “Normal”.
Font and Size: Use Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box. Set the font to Times New Roman and the size to 12. Both settings are essential in APA format paper writing.
Line Spacing: To set double spacing, press Ctrl + 2.
Indentation: For the first line of each paragraph, press Ctrl + T to create a hanging indent. To undo this and create a regular first-line indent, press Ctrl + Shift + T and then Tab to indent the first line.
APA format of paper
2. Title Page
Running Head: Press Alt + N to go to the “Insert” tab, then H for “Header”, and Ctrl + R to right-align the text. Type “Running head: YOUR TITLE” (in caps) on the first page. On other pages, just type the title without “Running head”.
Title: Press Ctrl + E to center the title. Capitalize each major word in the title.
Author and Institution: Press Ctrl + E again to center your name and institution. Press Enter between lines. Proper formatting of this section is crucial for APA format paper writing.
3. Main Body
Heading Levels:
Level 1: Centered, bold. Use Ctrl + E to center and Ctrl + B to bold.
Level 2: Left-aligned, bold. Use Ctrl + L to left-align and Ctrl + B to bold.
Level 3: Left-aligned, bold, and italicized. Use Ctrl + L, Ctrl + B, and Ctrl + I.
Level 4: Indented, bold, ending with a period. Use Ctrl + T for hanging indent, Ctrl + B, and type your text.
Level 5: Indented, italicized, ending with a period. Use Ctrl + T, Ctrl + I, and type your text.
4. References Page
Hanging Indent: Select the references text and press Ctrl + T to apply a hanging indent, following APA format paper conventions.
Title: Center the title “References” using Ctrl + E.
5. Page Numbers
Insert page numbers by pressing Alt + N, then N, and selecting “Page Number”. Place the number in the top right by pressing Ctrl + R.
This approach covers the essential formatting elements for an APA paper using keyboard shortcuts. Let me know if you need specific details on any step for better APA format paper writing! Find MLA Word Format here.
Regularly updating your computer is crucial for keeping it secure, efficient, and running smoothly. It’s important to apply the latest computer update to take advantage of these benefits. Software updates provide important improvements, such as enhanced security, better performance, and bug fixes. These updates also ensure that your computer stays compatible with the latest software and hardware, while offering new features to improve your user experience. Keeping your system up to date is a simple yet effective way to protect your device and ensure it operates at its best.
Regularly updating your computer as new updates are released is essential for several reasons:
Reasons to Apply Latest Computer Update
Regularly updating your computer is crucial for several reasons, starting with security. Updates often fix vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. By keeping your system updated, you protect it from viruses, malware, and cyberattacks.
Computer updates in Settings
Secondly, updates improve performance by making your computer faster and more efficient. They address bugs and glitches that can slow down your system.
Next, applying the latest updates introduce new features or improve existing tools, enhancing both your user experience and productivity.
As software evolves, updates also ensure compatibility with the latest programs, hardware, and devices.
Finally, many updates focus on fixing bugs and stability issues, helping your computer run smoothly and preventing crashes.
By consistently updating, you keep your computer secure, fast, and fully functional, avoiding many common problems.
Connecting a Focus Braille Display to a computer using JAWS screen reader enhances accessibility for blind and visually impaired users. The process of connecting a Connect Focus 40 Braille display allows users to interact with digital content through tactile feedback, improving independence and productivity. By following a few simple steps, you can seamlessly connect the Braille display via USB or Bluetooth and configure it in JAWS for optimal use. This guide provides an easy-to-follow approach for setting up your Focus Braille Display and ensuring smooth integration with JAWS.
Here are the steps to connect a Focus Braille Display to your computer using JAWS screen reader:
Connect Focus 40 Braille Display or other displays
Power on the Focus Braille Display
Ensure the Focus Braille Display is fully charged and powered on before connecting.
Connect the Display to the Computer
Use either USB or Bluetooth to connect the Focus Braille Display to your computer.
For USB: Plug the USB cable into both the Braille display and the computer.
For Bluetooth: Enable your computer’s Bluetooth and pair the Focus display in the Bluetooth settings.
Enable Braille in JAWS
Open JAWS by pressing Insert + J. Then, press Alt + O to open the Options menu.
Press B to select Braille or use the arrow keys to navigate, then press Enter.
Select the Braille Display
In the Braille settings window, ensure the “Focus” display is selected under the Default Braille Display dropdown.
If it’s not selected, use the arrow keys to choose “Focus” or manually type the model of the Braille display.
Check Braille Display Connection
After selecting the correct display, click OK or press Enter to confirm the connection.
JAWS should now detect the Focus Braille Display. Braille output should appear, and the display keys will control JAWS.
Configure Settings (Optional)
To further customize settings like verbosity and Braille output, go to Braille options via Insert + J, Alt + O, and B.
Test the Connection
Use JAWS commands on your keyboard or the Focus Braille Display keys to navigate.
If the connection works, the Braille display will respond to the text output from the computer.
By following these steps, you should successfully connect your Focus Braille Display to a computer using JAWS.
Dr. Robinson explains the three toggles to Switch Focus Braille Modes quickly on your Braille display. One toggle puts you into Braille mode for all Braille tasks. Another toggle switches to computer braille which inputs direct Nemeth code for math. The third toggle is for computer in and contracted out for either Nemeth or UEB math.
Access Jaws settings to set up Focus Braille Mode Options
First, press Insert + 6 to check your settings. Type “braille m” and down arrow to “Braille mode.” You can access options one by one with arrow keys or press F6 to jump to structured then Alt+T to jump to output. Press down arrow to UEB Grade 2 then tab to input and c to computer braille first to uncheck the box that says “Show current word in computer Braille”. Shift tab back up to input and choose UEB for both input and output. You can have other options also but this is what used here.
Tab through back to For structured Braille mode, check “Active cursor follows Braille cursor” and “Braille cursor follows active cursor.” These settings help beginners, especially when working with sighted personnel learning Braille to following along visually for instructor. Always have a certified Braille instructor (TVI) to teach reading and writing Braille correctly.
Always press Alt + A to apply settings before exiting. However, if you do not like the extra information at the start of your display, shift tab back to search in settings and type status and enter. Down arrow to status and F6 and down to right (to place status on the right of display) and down to none and apply that and close. When you first turn on your Braille display, the status characters may be confusing to young learners. Additional Braille Display Lessons here.
Focus Braille Display Image with Button options
Switch Focus Braille display modes quickly on display
For advanced users, status dots help in tables and other navigation. Beginners should start with “none.” Press Alt + A to apply changes, then enter to close. The Braille display functions like a Braille writer. Keys 1 2 3 are on the left, and keys 4 5 6 are on the right with space in between the left and right side. The left pinky key is backspace, which changes to dot 7, and the right pinky is enter or dot 8 in combination with other keys.
The current page provides instructions on creating a food chain for a class using talking software. It includes steps for saving a document in a specific format and navigating through menus using keyboard shortcuts. Additionally, it references the video below to help you each step of the way.
F12 and save as 97-2023 so after you F12 you will have file and tab once and down arrow or up arrow to 97-2023 doc and enter, then the commands will work for you.
Alt + N then M and right arrow to Food Chain and enter
Listen to recording to add information as you need
WORD accessible food chain and why we use them
A food chain is a sequence that shows how energy and nutrients flow from one organism to another within an ecosystem. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Producers: These are usually plants or algae that create their own food through photosynthesis. They form the base of the food chain.
Primary Consumers: Herbivores that eat the producers. Examples include rabbits and deer.
Secondary Consumers: Carnivores that eat the herbivores. For instance, a fox that eats rabbits.
Tertiary Consumers: These are predators that eat secondary consumers. An example would be an eagle that eats foxes.
Decomposers: Organisms like bacteria and fungi that break down dead plants and animals, returning nutrients to the soil.
Kaleigh, one of my (Dr Robinson) students since 2007, learned to Complete an excel graph in this lesson. She began with in-person lessons before transitioning to remote instruction. My husband and I moved 3,000 miles away to care for his parents, and we continued lessons via Skype, later advancing to Zoom. Over time, Kaleigh progressed from basic lessons to more sophisticated ones, covering her educational needs from third grade through graduation. By the time she finished, she was fully prepared for college and capable of completing all the work necessary to succeed in her future academic endeavors.
In this lesson, I teach her to navigate Excel using keyboard commands. She starts by creating a new document with CTRL + N and merges cells using ALT + H, M to set up graph labels. She inputs data from her Braille Display, with Excel’s talking software aiding her understanding. As she works on the histogram, she ensure she selects the correct cells and counts for the X and Y axes. She then adds and formats axis titles using ALT + J, A, I, adjusting the text orientation as needed.
Encouragement is Key
I consistently encourage her to check her data, ensuring she relies on assistive technology for accuracy. For formatting, she uses CTRL + C and CTRL + V to copy and paste sections, speeding up the process. We also cover coloring the graph, where I allow her to choose colors freely. I advise her to use consistent formats for simplicity. She shades sections of the histogram based on her data, using keyboard commands to control her workflow efficiently. This reinforces her independence and accuracy throughout the lesson.
Complete an excel graph Settings Option
After finishing the graph, she reviews her work using CTRL + Home to ensure all elements are correct. Satisfied, she copies the graph into Word and prepares to email it. This exercise demonstrates her effective use of keyboard shortcuts and assistive technology. Her growing independence in mastering Excel for academic tasks shows through her efficient and accurate work. The lesson highlights how the student combines guidance and technology to complete a detailed graph with confidence.
Office 365 online is fully accessible with screen readers, enhancing the user experience for visually impaired users. Through straightforward keyboard shortcuts, users can navigate and manage their documents efficiently. The interface supports major screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver, ensuring users can access emails, calendars, and all Office apps without a mouse. This integration empowers users to perform complex tasks seamlessly, from editing documents to collaborating in real time, ensuring a barrier-free environment for all users.
These shortcuts are integral for quick editing and formatting within Office 365 online access for applications, streamlining the process of document creation and modification.
In Office 365 applications like Word, you can quickly apply or change text styles using the Styles pane. The shortcut to open the Styles pane is ALT + CTRL + Shift + S. This allows you to apply predefined styles to your text efficiently. Additionally, you can use CTRL + Shift + S to open the Apply Styles dialog box, where you can type and apply a style name directly to the selected text. These shortcuts help streamline formatting and ensure consistent document styling.
Other Online Office 365 online access commands
Here are some essential commands for using Office 365 online efficiently:
Save: Ctrl + S
Undo: Ctrl + Z
Redo: Ctrl + Y
Open: Ctrl + O
Print: Ctrl + P
Copy: Ctrl + C
Paste: Ctrl + V
Cut: Ctrl + X
Bold: Ctrl + B
Italic: Ctrl + I
Underline: Ctrl + U
Insert Hyperlink: Ctrl + K
Refresh the Document: F5
Find: Ctrl + F
Replace: Ctrl + H
These shortcuts are fundamental for navigating and managing documents in Office 365 online, making your workflow quicker and more efficient.
Here are more helpful tips for using Office 365 effectively:
Quick Access Toolbar Customization:
Customize your Quick Access Toolbar by adding frequently used commands. Right-click any command in the ribbon and select “Add to Quick Access Toolbar.”
Use “Tell Me” Feature:
Use the “Tell Me” feature (light bulb icon or ALT + Q) in the ribbon to quickly find features or help with commands you’re unsure about.
Keyboard Shortcut Customization:
Customize keyboard shortcuts through the Word Options dialog to tailor your workflow preferences.
Use Version History:
Use Version History to view and restore previous versions of your documents, especially useful in collaborative settings.
Collaborate in Real-Time:
Use the collaboration tools in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to work with others in real-time, seeing changes as they happen.
The population of individuals with low vision exceeds that of those who are blind. It is expanding quickly as the population ages and experiences vision decline. A variety of lessons teach you how to download large cursors, enhance contrast, and enlarge text in Word. These skills also help you read with more ease. You’ll also learn how to magnify text and graphics on the Internet using different methods. Additionally, instructions on setting up low vision devices for students in classrooms who need to see the board are provided. These lessons are designed to improve your ability to see everything on your computer. The fact that these videos predate screen capture technology is irrelevant, as the skills are applicable to all versions of Windows.
Skills to Enlarge Text as you need on any computer
SEE your computer better, for users with low vision, using keyboard commands in Microsoft Word can significantly enhance visibility and ease of use. Here are some useful shortcuts:
Zoom In/Out:
Zoom In: Press Alt + W, then Q, and use the Tab key to navigate to the zoom value you want.
Zoom Out: Use the same steps as above but adjust the zoom value accordingly.
Adjust Font Size:
Increase Font Size: Press Ctrl + ].
Decrease Font Size: Press Ctrl + [.
Magnifier:
Turn on Magnifier: Press Windows + + (Plus sign).
Zoom In: Press Windows + + (Plus sign).
Zoom Out: Press Windows + - (Minus sign).
Exit Magnifier: Press Windows + Esc.
Change Font:
Open Font Dialog Box: Press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box where you can adjust font size, style, and other attributes.
High Contrast Mode:
Toggle High Contrast Mode: Press Left Alt + Left Shift + Print Screen.
Other Low Vision Skills to increase “Seeing” Ability
To set up an alarm in Outlook with JAWS, press Ctrl + 2 to switch to Calendar view. Next, press Ctrl + N to create a new appointment. JAWS announces each field as you navigate through the form. Enter the subject, then press Tab to move to the location field. Continue pressing Tab to set the start and end times. To adjust the date, use Alt + Down Arrow to access the date picker.
Press Alt + H to open the appointment tab, then A to set the reminder. Use arrow keys to select the desired reminder time, then press Enter to confirm. Finally, press Ctrl + S to save the appointment. At the scheduled time, JAWS will announce your reminder.
If you discover your computer is not working well, check your Setups on windows and if you are low vision, here are setup options also for better viewing.
Find the mouse cursor using a large cursor, using CTRL key and other tricks
Another insightful lesson from TechVision in finding mouse cursor fast. In this video they demonstrate how to easily locate the mouse pointer when it’s too small or lost on the screen. These steps will enhance visibility and ensure the mouse is always within visual reach.
To begin, press the Start key. On Windows 10 or later, simply start typing “mouse,” then select the result by pressing Enter to open the mouse settings. If settings opens first then tab to additional mouse settings.
Once inside, use Ctrl + Tab to navigate to the properties section. From here, the user is presented with various pointer schemes. They can choose “Magnified” for an enlarged pointer, or opt for “Extra Large” or “Inverted,” depending on preference. For users with high contrast settings, an inverted large white pointer is particularly effective. In this instance, they recommend selecting the “Magnified System Scheme.”
Now for the key trick: Ctrl + Tab to pointer options. At the bottom is an option labeled “Show location of pointer so the CTRL key is pressed you see it surrounded in circles. Or to enable this, use Alt + S or manually tab down to it. Once selected, press Alt + A to apply the changes, and then close the settings window.
With this feature enabled, pressing the Ctrl key will cause a large white ring to appear around the mouse pointer, allowing users to quickly find it, even if it’s far off on the screen.
This technique is particularly beneficial for individuals with low vision but can be useful for anyone who occasionally loses track of the mouse pointer. This simple yet effective tip ensures that the mouse pointer is always visible and easy to locate. Watch the full video for all those little tricks to make it easier to see your computer. In addition to seeing your computer better in general and other mouse access options.
Track changes in Word for a 9th grade. This student was only using a brailler to braille out all work….a very slow process to get it transcribed, then to the teacher, then back to the student. Now, in 2 months the student has moved to completing all work on a computer, emailing to teacher, teacher corrects and sends back.
The Math Window® system is a tactile math learning tool that is an innovative teaching tool for blind and visually impaired students. It uses magnetic tiles with Braille and print. This allows students to interact with math problems using tactile methods. Instructors and students can construct and modify equations by arranging these tiles. The board is portable and fits on a student’s desk. It includes a carrying tote for convenience. Available versions cover basic math, algebra, and geometry. Math Window supports Nemeth and UEB Braille standards.
The Math Window® system empowers students to engage actively with math. This enables them to learn how to output their math work on a computer using WORD. It offers a hands-on, tactile learning experience. The magnetic board and tile system supports understanding math problems in various disciplines. Students can create equations and move the magnetic tiles to explore concepts. They can easily modify or adjust their work as needed. The system’s adaptability allows instructors to personalize lessons. This enhances students’ independence in solving math problems.
Math Window provides two key Braille formats: Nemeth and UEB. This ensures compatibility with the Braille system used by the student. This flexibility makes it accessible in both educational and real-world settings. With tactile interaction, blind students can “see” math equations’ structure. This method builds confidence and encourages students to delve into STEM subjects.
The portability of the Math Window system allows ease of use in classrooms and homes. Instructors benefit from a clear, organized way to present math problems. Students can efficiently explore and manipulate the problems. This increases their engagement with the material. Whether working individually or in groups, the Math Window fosters a collaborative learning environment.
Using tactile math learning tools such as the Math Window, The student ‘visualizes’ the layout of a math formula by exploring it with their fingers.
Perfect Brailler for little children: Children often struggle to press the keys on a regular brailler due to their small fingers. That’s why I recommend the Mountbatten brailler.
I’ve introduced students as young as 3 years old to the Mountbatten brailler. They can braille with perfect finger positioning using this device.
Mountbatten- Perfect Brailler for Kids
We want to be careful when letting young children use the regular brailler so they don’t start poor brailling habits, such as using 2 fingers to press one key. This is not only time consuming, but also very slow because it takes so much effort to press the keys. The Mountbatten brailler, however allows for good habits to form while fingers are growing and getting stronger. Starting out correctly, our children will then be successful braillers with an ability to increase their output as they get older, creating a joy in reading what they wrote. This will lead to learning perfect touch typing on a keyboard and using a braille display on a computer. Then onto learning math on the brailler to moving it to the computer
Perfect Brailler for Kids: Versatile and User-Friendly
The video on the Math Window® system provides an in-depth look at how this tool benefits blind and visually impaired students. Here are some key details:
Magnetic Tiles: The system uses magnetic tiles that feature both Braille and print. This dual-format approach allows students to read and interact with math problems tactilely.
Portability: The Math Window® board is designed to be portable. It fits easily on a student’s desk and comes with a carrying tote, making it convenient for use in different settings.
Versatility: The system is available in various versions, including basic math, algebra, and geometry. This versatility ensures that it can be used across different levels of math education.
Braille Standards: Math Window® supports both Nemeth and UEB Braille standards. This compatibility ensures that it can be used by students who are familiar with either Braille system.
Hands-On Learning: The tactile nature of the Math Window® system allows students to engage with math problems in a hands-on manner. This method helps in building a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts.
Adaptability: Instructors can easily personalize lessons using the Math Window® system. They can arrange and modify the magnetic tiles to suit each student’s learning pace and needs.
Confidence Building: By allowing students to “see” the structure of math equations through touch, the system helps build their confidence. It encourages them to explore STEM subjects more independently.
Collaborative Environment: The system fosters a collaborative learning environment. Students can work individually or in groups, making it suitable for both classroom and home use.
The Math Window® system makes an Ideal Brailler for Children with more Math lessons here
Regarding Children Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision
Technology, Independence, and the Right to Compete
Access Technology Training lessons: Student creating a Google sheets line graph with screen reader and Braille Display
To Every School Administrator, Teacher, and Parent Who has a Child With Vision Loss:
This is not a suggestion. This is a plea – born from nearly 40 years of professional experience in the field of blindness, visual impairment and access technology, and from the realities of a competitive world that will not slow down and will not make exceptions – that you act now, while there is still time to give your child or student every possible advantage.
Children who are blind or have low vision are just as intelligent, capable, and ambitious as any sighted child. What they deserve – what they are owed – is the proper set of tools to demonstrate that capability at full speed. Right now, in too many classrooms and homes across this country, those tools are absent, delayed, or introduced far too late. That must change.
The Foundation: A Windows PC — The World’s Standard Platform
Windows-based PCs represent approximately 72% of all personal computers in use worldwide. This is not a preference – it is the dominant reality of the workplace, the university, the government agency, and the business world your child will enter. Teaching a blind or low vision child on any other primary platform is preparing them for a world that does not exist at scale.
Windows is also open and extensible. Unlike closed ecosystems, a Windows PC can be configured, customized, and expanded with virtually any assistive technology available – screen readers, braille drivers, magnification software, speech input – without restriction. It is the most future-proof environment for a child whose assistive needs may evolve over time. One critical requirement, however: the person who teaches your child must be actively using all components of the system themselves every single day, navigating exclusively by screen reader and braille display. You cannot teach what you do not live.
Every blind or low vision child should be learning on a Windows PC. Period. At the earliest age possible.
The Tools That Open the World: Screen Readers
A screen reader converts on-screen text and navigation into speech or braille output, allowing a blind user to operate a computer fully and independently. There are three primary options, each with a distinct role – and a serious student needs fluency in all three.
JAWS (Job Access With Speech)
JAWS is the gold standard in professional and educational environments. It offers the deepest compatibility with Microsoft Office, enterprise software, and web-based platforms. For any student planning to enter the professional workforce, JAWS fluency is a career asset. It is the screen reader most commonly encountered in workplaces that have made accessibility accommodations.
NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)
NVDA is free, open-source, and exceptionally powerful. It is fully supported, actively developed, and used by millions of blind individuals worldwide. For families and schools with budget constraints, NVDA removes every financial barrier to professional-grade access. Students who master NVDA are fluent in a tool used in homes, libraries, and workplaces globally.
Microsoft Narrator
Narrator is built directly into Windows and requires no installation. While not as feature-rich as JAWS or NVDA for complex tasks, it is a valuable tool for early introduction, emergency access, and environments where installing additional software is not immediately possible. Every Windows user – blind or not – has access to Narrator the moment they power on their device and complete setup.
iPhone with Siri and VoiceOver
No conversation about screen readers is complete without addressing the iPhone. Apple’s VoiceOver, built directly into every iPhone, is one of the most powerful tools available to combine the perfect team of PC with iPhone. It is the device you carry with you every hour of every day. Siri adds hands-free voice control outside class but inside class ability to send a quick SOS to their tech instructor for help keeps them moving. One command on the braille display connected to the computer goes right to the iPhone in their pocket, enables the student to send and SOS tech issue so a remote tech instructor can jump on to solve their issue so they can keep moving in class ASAP.
In the real world, blind professionals use a Windows PC at their desk and an iPhone in their pocket. Teaching both, from early on, prepares a student for exactly that reality.
Braille Displays: The Essential Partner to the Screen Reader
A refreshable braille display connects to a PC and presents on-screen text as braille cells that the user reads with their fingertips to teach spelling, paragraph layout and everything the sighted student does with print. This is not optional equipment for a serious student – it is essential. Reading braille is to literacy what reading print is to a sighted child. Without it, a blind student depends entirely on audio output, which is slower for review, comprehension, proofreading, and deep reading tasks. Beyond speed, a braille display teaches spelling, formatting, punctuation, and document structure in ways that audio alone simply cannot.
Recommended Displays
Focus 40 Blue (Freedom Scientific) — The preferred professional-grade display. Forty braille cells, excellent build quality, seamless integration with JAWS, and trusted in educational and workplace settings worldwide. The 40-cell width allows students to read longer passages without constant panning, dramatically improving reading speed and comprehension.
Brailliant BI 40X (HumanWare) — An outstanding alternative with strong multi-device connectivity and a comfortable key layout. Compatible with all major screen readers and well-suited for students who work across multiple devices throughout the school day.
A 40-cell display – not a smaller 14- or 20-cell model – is strongly recommended for students. The larger cell count significantly reduces the scrolling required and more closely mirrors the experience of reading a full line of text, building the natural reading rhythm that leads to true fluency. For students pursuing STEM fields, an 80-cell display is worth the investment.
The Hard Truth That No One Wants to Say Out Loud
A blind or low vision child, without proper tools, cannot complete academic work at the same speed as a sighted child with 20/20 vision. This is not a failure of the child. It is biology and failure of an educational system. It is the reality of navigating a world designed for sighted people without the technology that closes that gap.
Schools often respond to this reality by granting extended time – double time, time and a half, reduced assignments – on work and exams. And while this accommodation is legally appropriate, it comes with a hidden cost that is rarely spoken aloud: less work assigned means less information learned, and reduced exposure to content creates knowledge gaps that compound over time. The job that child will one day compete for will not reduce its requirements to match. We must look further down the road with clear Vision:
Extended time does not exist in a job interview.
Extended time does not exist when competing against other applicants for a position.
Extended time does not exist when a deadline arrives, a client is waiting, or a team needs output.
You learn less in school — and the job will demand more.
Close the Gap Before It Closes Their Future
Life is competitive. It has always been competitive. The kindest, most loving thing we can do for a child who is blind or has low vision is to prepare them to compete – not just to participate, but to compete effectively, efficiently, and with confidence, from kindergarten through career.
The only way to close the speed gap is technology mastered early with braille. A student who has used a screen reader and braille display fluently since early elementary school does not look like a student with a disability when they move through school or enter the workforce. They look like someone who is fast, precise, and capable, because they are.
Additional Reasons This Cannot Wait
1. Independence Is Dignity
A child who relies on a sighted person to read their screen or paper work, describe their assignments, write down their answers, or help navigate their computer is not independent – and they know it. That awareness is not abstract. It settles into them quietly and deeply: the knowledge that someone else is doing for them what they cannot yet do for themselves. It becomes embarrassment. Then frustration. Then, for far too many children, it becomes depression.
This is one of the most significant and least discussed emotional consequences of inadequate assistive technology instruction. These children are not failing because they lack intelligence or effort. They are failing because they have not been given their tools and they are old enough to understand the difference. Worse they watch their classmates work independently. They watch themselves need help. And over time, that gap between what they can do and what they are expected to do without support begins to define how they see themselves.
Independence Is the Antidote
Technology taught by a highly skilled instructor who uses these access tools daily eliminates this dependency. A child who can navigate their own screen, read their own assignments, and submit their own work has done something that no grade or test score can fully capture: they have proven to themselves and others that they can do it. That proof is the foundation of self-worth, confidence, and the unshakeable belief that one can manage one’s own life on one’s own terms.
Independence is not merely practical. It is the antidote to the depression that follows when a child has been taught, unintentionally, that they cannot.
2. Early Learning Equals Deep Fluency
A child who learns a screen reader at age four or five develops the same automatic, effortless relationship with that tool that a sighted child develops with reading text on a page and writing with a pencil. A teenager introduced to a screen reader for the first time is fighting an uphill cognitive battle, learning the tool at the same time they are trying to use it to complete schoolwork. Early adoption eliminates this double burden entirely.
3. Academic Access Across All Subjects
A properly configured PC with a screen reader opens every subject: reading, writing, math (with accessible tools like MathML and Nemeth braille, UEB Braille), science, coding, history, art research, everything. Without it, a blind student’s access to the full curriculum depends entirely on the availability of a human aide or specially prepared materials. Technology removes that bottleneck and gives the student direct, independent access to the same content as every other child in the room.
4. The Job Market Rewards Technology Fluency
Employers, by and large, do not know what screen readers are. They will not know to provide accommodations they have never heard of and in that gap of understanding, a qualified candidate can lose a job simply because the employer cannot picture how the work would get done.
A candidate who arrives already proficient changes that entire dynamic. They sit down at a Windows PC, they are productive immediately, and at the right moment they say with confidence: “I want you to know, I am blind, and this is exactly how I do this job.” Then they show it. With speed and efficiency. With no hesitation. That demonstration does more to overcome an employer’s uncertainty than any disclosure form or accommodation request ever could.
This person competes. The person who has never been properly trained walks into that same room hoping for understanding they may not receive. The difference between those two outcomes is not intelligence. It is preparation.
5. Post-Secondary Education Expectations
Colleges and universities have disability services offices, but those offices cannot replace skill. A student who arrives at university without strong assistive technology fluency will spend precious early semesters struggling to catch up on tools rather than engaging with coursework or they will not catch up at all, and fail. Too often, the alternative is that a parent steps in to do the work for them, which is exactly what regularly occurs when students arrive unprepared. Students who arrive already expert in their technology can advocate for themselves effectively, focus entirely on their education, and move forward alongside their peers.
6. Mental Health and Self-Efficacy
The psychological toll of constantly needing help of always being the student who requires special arrangements, who cannot do what everyone else is doing is real and cumulative. Technology-empowered students report significantly higher confidence, academic engagement, and willingness to attempt challenging tasks. Giving a blind or low vision child their tools is giving them their identity as a capable person.
On the Question of Learning Braille: Who, When, and Why
Braille literacy is one of the strongest predictors of academic success and employment for blind individuals. The research on this is not subtle, it is decisive. But the question of who should learn braille is not always straightforward, and it must be considered carefully in the context of each child’s specific diagnosis.
Children Who Are Fully Blind
There is no question. Braille instruction should begin immediately, ideally by age three, and no later than the beginning of formal schooling. Braille is their print. Delaying braille for a blind child is the equivalent of delaying reading instruction for a sighted child. Every year of delay compounds into a literacy deficit that becomes harder to close.
Children With Low Vision
This requires careful evaluation in partnership with the child’s ophthalmologist and prognosis. Three key questions must guide the decision:
Is the condition stable or progressive? If progressive, the answer is clear: begin braille instruction immediately, regardless of how much vision the child currently has.
Can the child read print efficiently at a rate and comfort level that matches a child with 20/20 vision? If not, print alone is not sufficient and braille must be part of the plan.
Is the child’s functional vision expected to remain sufficient throughout their lifetime? If there is any reasonable doubt, begin braille now. It is far easier to have a skill and not need it than to need a skill and not have it.
When Braille Starts Late
What if the child is older and braille instruction is only beginning now? Research is unambiguous on this point: students who begin braille instruction after 6th grade rarely achieve functional reading fluency. The tactile sensitivity, finger dexterity, and automatic cell recognition that true braille literacy requires develop in early childhood. That window is largely closed by the time a child enters middle school, and full literary braille instruction after that point becomes, in most cases, an exercise in frustration for both the student and the instructor.
For the older student who is past that window, the goal must shift to functional braille, what they will actually use in daily life: device navigation, labels, signage, reference points, and targeted reading tasks. Trying to force full literary braille on a resistant older student creates a battle you will not win. You will spend more time fighting than teaching. Focus on usefulness. Motivation follows. And in every case, a PC with a screen reader and braille display becomes the central key to that student’s success going forward.
If the Condition Is Progressive: Braille Is Not Optional
If a child has a progressive eye condition – retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, glaucoma, or any diagnosis with a trajectory toward increasing vision loss – braille instruction must begin immediately, regardless of how much usable vision the child currently has. Here is why:
Braille is most easily and deeply learned when taught young, when the brain’s neuroplasticity is at its peak, just as with learning any other language. The earlier the exposure, the deeper the fluency.
A child who waits until their vision has deteriorated significantly is learning braille at the same time they are grieving a loss: an emotionally devastating combination that slows learning or stops it entirely.
A teenager or adult who must learn braille after vision loss faces a steep, stressful acquisition curve that can take years to develop into functional fluency.
A child who learns braille at age three or four and uses it throughout their education will be functionally fluent by the time their vision deteriorates, ready, not scrambling.
Teaching braille to a child who still has usable vision is not pessimism. It is planning. It is love with foresight.
The Crisis That Arrives in Middle School
Every summer, TechVision receives calls about blind and low-vision students who are beginning to fall behind significantly. In most cases, blind children have no technology at all, and low-vision students lack both technology and braille instruction. By middle school, the academic demands increase sharply, the volume of reading and writing grows, and students are expected to manage far more digital work on their own, and they cannot.
For students with progressive low-vision diagnoses, middle school is often the point where remaining vision no longer allows them to complete work efficiently, even with low-vision tools. At that point, they are not only trying to keep up academically. They are also trying to learn braille, screen-reader skills, braille-display use, keyboarding, file management, accessible math, and online platform navigation, all at the same time. The academic and the remedial collide, and the student is caught in the middle.
That is why early instruction matters. Waiting until a student begins failing creates an avoidable crisis. Teaching braille and technology before the crisis gives the student time to build fluency, confidence, and independence.
The Timeline: What the Research and Experience Tell Us
Age 3: The ideal starting point. Children at this age learn through play and exploration and absorb braille as naturally as sighted children absorb picture books and letters (include a cane here also). Tactile literacy can begin before formal reading instruction in other areas. Introduce them to a PC with a screen reader and braille display through play. By age four, begin teaching touch typing. Done consistently, a child is ready to begin kindergarten already equipped.
Kindergarten through 2nd grade: Still an excellent window. With intensive, consistent instruction, a child can achieve strong foundational literacy by early elementary school.
3rd through 5th grade: Still achievable but increasingly challenging. By this stage, the child is already behind in braille literacy relative to academic demands. Intensive TVI/Tech support is essential and must begin immediately. Think summer time instruction-always.
Middle school and beyond: Braille can and should still be taught, but the window for achieving deep, automatic fluency is narrowing. Every year of delay past 5th grade represents a harder road. Shift the focus to functional braille and technology mastery.
When a school district first receives a blind or low vision student at any age: Instruction in assistive technology and braille (where indicated) must begin on day one: not after evaluation periods, not after IEP meetings have stretched across months or years. The clock is running from the moment that child walks through the door. Day one.
What We Are Asking You to Do
For School Districts:
Ensure every blind or low vision student has immediate access to a Windows PC configured with both NVDA and JAWS, connected to a 40-cell refreshable braille display and paired with a highly skilled instructor who uses these tools daily.
Hire TVIs and assistive technology instructors who are genuine daily users of the technology they teach. A degree or certification alone does not qualify someone to teach JAWS, NVDA, or a braille display. Technology fluency is not academic knowledge, it is muscle memory. It is the ability to troubleshoot in real time, demonstrate at speed, and anticipate where a student will struggle because you have been there yourself. A Teacher of the Blind and Visually Impaired (TVI) who does not use this technology every single day cannot teach it well, regardless of what their diploma says.
Coordinate braille and technology instruction as one integrated program, not two separate tracks. When these skills are taught together on the same device, they reinforce each other and the student learns faster. If a TVI is a strong braille teacher but does not have deep technology expertise, the right answer is to pair them with a qualified assistive technology instructor who does. Integration from one highly skilled person is the ideal; a strong partnership between specialists is the practical alternative. One person doing both poorly serves no one.
Begin NOW
Begin braille instruction for eligible students immediately upon enrollment, not pending further evaluation, not after the next IEP meeting, not once the “right” TVI is located. Interim solutions are acceptable. Delay is not.
Embed assistive technology instruction into the student’s daily academic life as the primary mode of access, not as a pull-out supplement. Remote instruction is a powerful and underutilized tool: a qualified technology instructor can be present in the classroom via headset and screen share, guiding the student in real time without disrupting the class, while the student remains fully included with their peers. When pulling a student out is unavoidable, choose the one hour of the school day that causes the least disruption to their social and academic integration. These students are already navigating more than their sighted peers. Do not add social isolation to that burden.
Measure student progress in assistive technology fluency with the same rigor applied to reading, math, and every other subject. The student completes all work on the PC. They email completed assignments to the teacher. The teacher places feedback directly in the document using Word comments and emails it back. This is not a workaround, this is the workflow. It is clean, professional, and mirrors exactly how the working world operates. It holds the student to the same standard of output and accountability as every other person in the room.
For Parents:
Do not wait for the school to take the lead. Advocate immediately and loudly for your child’s right to assistive technology and braille instruction.
If your child has a progressive eye condition, contact a TVI and assistive technology specialist today about beginning braille instruction, regardless of your child’s current functional vision level.
Set up a Windows PC at home with NVDA (free to download) and have your child use it for reading, homework, and exploration every single day.
Connect with the National Federation of the Blind, the American Foundation for the Blind, and your state’s Blind and Low Vision Services for resources, advocacy support, and community.
Believe, fiercely and without apology, that your child can compete. Then make sure they have the tools to prove it.
The Future Is Waiting. Start Today.
The child who is three years old today and begins braille and assistive technology instruction this year will walk into their first job interview at age twenty-two as a fully equipped, confident, and capable professional. The child who waits may walk in hoping for accommodations they may not receive, competing at a speed they were never trained to reach.
The tools exist. The research is clear. The need is urgent. All that is required is the will to act: now, not later, not after one more evaluation, not after the next IEP cycle. Now.
Every blind and low vision child deserves to compete. Give them the tools to do it.
