Dr Denise M Robinson

Search results for: “spanish”

  • Spanish Braille Display or Keyboard Output/Input

    Learning Spanish Braille

    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.

       – Practice using these in words and sentences.

    Gain Fluency Through Access Training

     4. Use Spanish Braille Materials

       – 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

    Spanish Braille display or keyboard image of braille dots that are in this accessible page for auditory learners

    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

    Punctuation Marks

    ¿   (inverted question mark)  =  Press Alt + Ctrl + Shift + ? (question mark)
    ¡   (inverted exclamation mark)  =  Press Alt + Ctrl + Shift + ! (exclamation mark)
    «   (opening angle quotation mark)  =  Press Ctrl + ` (grave accent), then Shift + < (less than symbol)
    »   (closing angle quotation mark)  =  Press Ctrl + ` (grave accent), then Shift + > (greater than symbol)

    Practice Spanish Braille with Braille Display or Keyboard

    Practice Perfect Touch Typing for accuracy as this helps tremendously with any language typing skills.

    Práctica: You can Use JAWS insert+4 on keyboard for any special symbol also

    ¿Qué hora es por favor, señor? 

    Soy de México.  

    !Mucho gusto, Marta! Hola.

    ¡Mucho gusto, Marta! Hola!

     ¿Qué hora es por favor, señor?

    ¿Qué hora es por favor, señor?

    Practice Conversational Spanish

    If you find your computer is working odd–here is a video on how to fix it then continue

    1. ¡Buenos días! ¡Hola! / Good morning!
    2. ¡Buenas tardes!  Good afternoon!
    3. ¡Buenas noches! Good evening! / Good night!
    4. ¡Hola! / ¡Chao!  ¡Hi! / Bye!
    5. Adiós.  Goodbye.
    6. Por favor.  Please.
    7. Hasta la vista / Hasta luego. See you / See you later.
    8. Hasta pronto. See you soon.
    9. Hasta mañana. See you tomorrow.
    10. (Muchas) Gracias. 
    11. Thank you (very much).
    12. De nada. You’re welcome.
    13. Bienvenidos  Welcome
    14. Lo siento  I’m sorry
    15. Con permiso / Perdón / Disculpe  Excuse me / Pardon me 
    16. ¡Vamos!  Let’s go!
    17. ¿Cómo está usted?  How are you? (formal) 
    18. ¿Cómo estás?  How are you? (informal)
    19. Insert+4 for eacute in
    20. ¿Qué tal?   How’s it going?
    21. Bien / Muy bien  Good / Very good
    22. Insert+4 for acute in Más below
    23. Mal / Muy mal / Más o menos  Bad / Very bad / OK
    24. Sí / No Yes / No
    25. ¿Cómo?
    26. ¿Cómo se llama usted? What is your name? (formal)
    27. ¿Cómo te llamas?  What is your name? (informal)
    28. Me llamo…  / Mi nombre es… My name is…
    29. 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.

    Team Specialists to Train YOU

    Learn UEB Braille on your own

    Make sure to keep your display clean and learn to read Braille Fast

    Advance to UEB Math learning

    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.

    Other Spanish Setup Lessons

    Braille Setup for Spanish

    Spanish Braille input output

    Spanish Braille with Jaws

  • Spanish Braille Setup with JAWS and a Focus Braille Display: How to Configure Any Language

    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.

    Jaws Spanish language setup for braille and information on how to type it out in WORD

    Quickly Switch Between Language for Jaws Spanish Braille Setup

    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

    Other Spanish Lessons

    Braille Setup for Spanish

    Spanish Braille input output

    Spanish Braille with Jaws

    Switch Display Modes

  • Spanish Braille on a Braille Display Using JAWS: Input and Output Setup for Multilingual Users

    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 Braille Display or keyboard Output/Input and special commands below

    Spanish braille with Jaws
    Image Spanish Braille with Jaws

    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

    Punctuation Marks

    ¿   (inverted question mark)  =  Press Alt + Ctrl + Shift + ? (question mark)
    ¡   (inverted exclamation mark)  =  Press Alt + Ctrl + Shift + ! (exclamation mark)
    «   (opening angle quotation mark)  =  Press Ctrl + ` (grave accent), then Shift + < (less than symbol)
    »   (closing angle quotation mark)  =  Press Ctrl + ` (grave accent), then Shift + > (greater than symbol)

    Speaking/Writing Spanish

    Práctica: You can Use insert+4 for any special symbol also

    ¿Qué hora es por favor, señor? 

    Soy de México.  

    !Mucho gusto, Marta! Hola.

    ¡Mucho gusto, Marta! Hola!

     ¿Qué hora es por favor, señor?

    ¿Qué hora es por favor, señor?

    1. ¡Buenos días! ¡Hola! / Good morning!
    2. ¡Buenas tardes!  Good afternoon!
    3. ¡Buenas noches! Good evening! / Good night!
    4. ¡Hola! / ¡Chao!  Hi! / Bye!
    5. Adiós.  Good bye.
    6. Por favor.  Please.
    7. Hasta la vista / Hasta luego. See you / See you later.
    8. Hasta pronto. See you soon.
    9. Hasta mañana. See you tomorrow.
    10. (Muchas) Gracias. 
    11. Thank you (very much).
    12. De nada.You’re welcome.
    13. Bienvenidos  Welcome
    14. Lo siento  I’m sorry
    15. Con permiso / Perdón / Disculpe  Excuse me / Pardon me 
    16. ¡Vamos!  Let’s go!
    17. ¿Cómo está usted?  How are you? (formal) 
    18. ¿Cómo estás?  How are you? (informal)
    19. Insert+4 for eacute in
    20. ¿Qué tal?   How’s it going?
    21. Bien / Muy bien  Good / Very good
    22. Insert+4 for acute in Más below
    23. Mal / Muy mal / Más o menos  Bad / Very bad / OK
    24. Sí / No Yes / No
    25. ¿Cómo?
    26. ¿Cómo se llama usted? What is your name? (formal)
    27. ¿Cómo te llamas?  What is your name? (informal)
    28. Me llamo…  / Mi nombre es… My name is…
    29. Mucho gusto. / Encantado.  Nice to meet you.

    More Lessons at YouTube and YourTechVision WebSite

    Other Spanish Lessons

    Braille Setup for Spanish

    Spanish Braille input output

    Spanish Braille with Jaws

  • Google Classroom and Spanish with JAWS

    Teacher of the Blind and Visually Impaired Jordana gives an overview of how to navigate Google Classroom for a Conversational Spanish Level 1 course using JAWS. The instructor, Jordana demonstrates how to join the class, navigate the main page, and access class materials. She is native born from Ecuador so English is her second language.

    Here are some useful keyboard commands for Google Classroom:

    General Navigation

    • Tab: Move through links and text fields on the page.
    • Space Bar: Works like a mouse click.
    • Ctrl + C: Copy
    • Ctrl + X: Cut
    • Ctrl + V: Paste
    • Ctrl + Z: Undo
    • Ctrl + K: Add a link (Use Command instead of Ctrl on a Mac)
    Google classroom layout and Spanish with Jaws
    Google classroom and Spanish with Jaws

    Specific to Google Classroom

    • Ctrl + F: Find specific text on the page.
    • Ctrl + Shift + N: Open a new incognito window (useful for testing student views).
    • Ctrl + Shift + T: Reopen the last closed tab.

    These shortcuts can streamline workflow navigation for ease, especially when using assistive technologies.

  • Braille Display with Jaws-auto read

    This session shows how users can start auto-read on the Focus Braille display with JAWS, adjust reading speed, and activate a full-read mode with ER + Space, even though many believed this feature did not exist. This video demonstrates the feature in action and explains how it works along with other useful commands. These commands allow you to fully control your computer exclusively using the Focus 40 or 80 Braille display-See video below

    Focus Braille Display auto-read or auto scroll mode to increase reading speed or just read quietly-from YouTube Video

    Focus Braille Display Commands to control computer for auto-read or auto-scroll

    Modifier Keys

    Use the modifier keys to simulate key combinations (keystrokes) that include CTRL, ALT, WINDOWS Key, SHIFT, or the JAWS Key (INSERT). To use these modifiers for the Focus Braille Display when typing a keystroke, do the following:

    1. Hold down DOT 8 CHORD and then press the corresponding modifier keys in the keystroke. Modifier keystrokes are listed in the following table.
    2. After you create the modifier portion of the keystroke, release the keys and press the remaining part of the keystroke. For example, to perform the keystroke CTRL+SHIFT+V, you press DOTS 3-7-8 CHORD, release the keys, and then press V (DOTS 1-2-3-6).

    Focus Display combo Commands

    Modifier Keys
    Key NameKeystroke
    Function Keys (F1 through F12)
    For more information, see the Function Keys description.    		DOT 1
    INSERTDOT 2 8 space
    CTRLDOT 3 8 space
    WINDOWS KeyDOT 4 8 space
    JAWS KeyDOT 5 8 space
    ALTDOT 6 8 space
    SHIFTDOT 7 8 space
    APPLICATION KeyRIGHT SHIFT+DOT 2 CHORD
     TABDOTS 4-5 CHORD 
     SHIFT+TABB CHORD 
     HOMEK CHORD 
     ENDDOTS 4-6 CHORD 
    Select Prior LineDOTS 1-7 CHORD 
    Select Next LineDOTS 4-7 CHORD 
    Select to End of LineDOTS 4-6-7 CHORD or 4,7, space
    ESCRIGHT SHIFT+DOT 1 or Z CHORD
    DELETEFOR CHORD
    Select word5,7, space

    Selection Commands

    DescriptionBraille SignBraille Dot Patterns
    Select Next CharacterLEFT SHIFT+DOT 6LEFT SHIFT+DOT 6
    Select Prior CharacterLEFT SHIFT+DOT 3LEFT SHIFT+DOT 3
    Select Next LineLEFT SHIFT+DOT 4LEFT SHIFT+DOT 4
    Select Prior LineLEFT SHIFT+DOT 1LEFT SHIFT+DOT 1
    Select to End of LineLEFT SHIFT+DOT 5LEFT SHIFT+DOT 5
    Select from Start of LineLEFT SHIFT+DOT 2LEFT SHIFT+DOT 2
    Select from TopLEFT SHIFT+LLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-2-3
    Select to BottomLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 4-5-6LEFT SHIFT+DOTS 4-5-6
    Select Next ScreenLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 4-6LEFT SHIFT+DOTS 4-6
    Select Prior ScreenLEFT SHIFT+KLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-3
    Select AllLEFT SHIFT+FOR SignLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-2-3-4-5-6
    Select a FrameRIGHT SHIFT+9RIGHT SHIFT+DOTS 3-5
    Select a HeadingRIGHT SHIFT+6RIGHT SHIFT+DOTS 2-3-5
    Select a LinkRIGHT SHIFT+7RIGHT SHIFT+DOTS 2-3-5-6
    Windows Commands
    DescriptionBraille SignDOTS Pattern
    ALT+TABLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 4-5LEFT SHIFT+DOTS 4-5
    Paste from ClipboardLEFT SHIFT+VLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-2-3-6
    Copy to ClipboardLEFT SHIFT+CLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-4
    Cut to ClipboardLEFT SHIFT+XLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-3-4-6
    UndoLEFT SHIFT+ZLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-3-5-6
    DeleteLEFT SHIFT+DLEFT SHIFT+DOTS 1-4-5

    Table of Multi-Control Functions

    FunctionCommand
    Toggle Auto Advance Mode or auto readLEFT SELECT+RIGHT SELECT to start and stop down arrow – er+space is read all – if you want to auto read and hear words then down arrow and speed up as you want
    Decrease Auto Advance SpeedLEFT SELECT
    Increase Auto Advance SpeedRIGHT SELECT
    Left Mouse ClickPANNING BUTTON+CURSOR ROUTING BUTTON or
    PANNING ROCKER UP+CURSOR ROUTING BUTTON or
    PANNING ROCKER DOWN+CURSOR ROUTING BUTTON
    Control+Left Mouse ClickROUTING BUTTON CHORD
    Page DownLEFT or RIGHT SELECT+ROCKER DOWN
    Page UpLEFT or RIGHT SELECT+ROCKER UP
    Top of FileLEFT PANNING BUTTON+SELECT BUTTON or
    SELECT BUTTON+PANNING ROCKER UP
    Bottom of FileRIGHT PANNING BUTTON+SELECT BUTTON or
    SELECT BUTTON+PANNING ROCKER DOWN
    EndPANNING BUTTON+ROCKER BAR DOWN
    HomePANNING BUTTON+ROCKER BAR UP
    Next LineROCKER BAR DOWN
    Prior LineROCKER BAR UP
    Pan LeftLEFT PANNING BUTTON or
    LEFT PANNING ROCKER UP
    Pan RightRIGHT PANNING BUTTON or RIGHT PANNING ROCKER UP
    Select TextRIGHT SELECT BUTTON+CURSOR ROUTING BUTTON
    Select BlockSELECT BUTTON+CURSOR ROUTING BUTTON at beginning of block; repeat at end of block

    Examples to show you how it all goes together:

    restart jaws 2,8,space space,  1,8,space d

    Windows search box with–  right shift, 4

    alt tab is 6,8, space then 4,5 space—or  right shift 4 5

    F6, space/1-8 f

    Ctrl tab – 3 8 space the tab with 4,5 space

    alt f4  – 1 6 8 space then d

    read all, space/1-2-4-5-6, ER cord

    say title of window – right shift/dots 1-2

    Say time– right shift/dots1-2-3

    read all — er chord 

    refresh screen  -right shift z

    in drive get contractions off and cursor off

    Then –insert z cursor off-2,8,space then z

    Or do slash for search—contractions off with g,7,space then dots 3,4

    hush up jaws—3,8, space

    HOME- K CHORD

    END-DOTS 4-6 CHORD

    PAGE UP-LEFT SHIFT+ROCKER BAR UP or RIGHT SHIFT+ROCKER BAR UP or DOTS 2-3-7 CHORD

    PAGE DOWN-LEFT SHIFT+ROCKER BAR DOWN or RIGHT SHIFT+ROCKER BAR DOWN or DOTS 5-6-7 CHORD

    DELETE–FOR CHORD as in 1,2,3,4,5,6 and space –the word chord is the language I grew up with, they made it space a couple decades ago as new people did not get term “chord”

    Commands to get you going on Understanding more skills

    esc is right shift dot 1

    alt right shift dot 2 is

    right click right shift dot 3

    Windows search box with right shift+4

    right shift dot 5 is window list

    left shift 1 – select line

    left shift 3  – select character

    dot 6 8 space then d to URL

    3 8 space that opens new tab

    dot 3 8 space the tab with 4,5 space

    alt tab is 6,8, space then 4,5 space

    PC cursor is p space

    taskbar is 4,8,6 then t

    alt f4  – right shift dot then 1 6 8 space then d for do

    F6, space/1-8 then f

    read all, space/1-2-4-5-6, ER cord

    Went over, say title of window using the Focus, right shift/dots 1-2

    Space 4 8 to desktop

    Say time with the Focus, right shift/dots1-2-3

    say time with right shift 1 2 3

    right shift z refresh screen

    er chord is read all

    8 4 space then t to taskbar

    8 4 space then d to desktop

    title with space/8-5 followed by T, but the shift/1-2 is just so much nicer.

    ESC–RIGHT SHIFT+DOT 1 or Z CHORD

    ALT–RIGHT SHIFT+DOT 2

    APPLICATION Key–RIGHT SHIFT+DOT 2 CHORD

    BACKSPACE–DOT 7

    ENTER-DOT 8

    CTRL+BACK SPACE- DOTS 1-2-3-4-5-6-7 CHORD

    TAB DOTS – 4-5 CHORD

    SHIFT+TAB–B CHORD

    Other Focus Display Lessons

    Focus Braille Display and SD to and from Scratchpad and PC

    Spanish Braille setup or any language with JAWS and Focus Display

    Algebra with Focus Display and JAWS in Word- YouTube

    Advanced math: Mathtype & LaTex for using Word for blind students, using Focus Display & JAWS with Professor Betsey- YouTube

  • Flashcard Studying in Google Sheets with a Screen Reader: Eme’s Accessible Study Method

    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.

    image of Flashcard studying in sheets with multiple rows and columns of information

    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.

    solving inequalities

    Create Histogram

    Excel Trend-line with Scatter Plot

    Other Excel Lessons that you can do in Sheets

    Learn more Great Study habits with Google and more Videos on our YouTube Channel:

  • Blind Sports

    Playing basketball as a blind individual involves using adaptive techniques and modified equipment. For example, Playing Basketball without sight typically has a bell inside so players can track it by sound. Teams communicate frequently, using verbal cues to help navigate the court. Players rely on spatial awareness, memorizing the court’s dimensions, and practicing positioning with the help of sighted guides or teammates. Basketball in the dark, involves dribbling, passing, and shooting all adjusted for touch and sound, rather than sight, allowing blind players to fully engage in the game.

    Humberto is with his Spanish interpreter (and both are learning English) while basketball coach directs him and where to shoot the ball. Playing Basketball without sight can be challenging, but Blind students can do any activity with the right access tools in place.

    Humberto Playing Basketball without sight being directed by coach

    More on YouTube

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Accessibility by WAH