Dr Denise M Robinson

Access Technology & Education Services for Blind and Low Vision

Search results for: “low vision”

  • Google Drive screen reader navigation with keyboard commands

    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.

    Make Google Accessible

    Making Google Accessible with EDGE: Screen Readers Can’t Read This!

  • Drag n Drop with Jaws, in Macmillan Learning online

    Raveena demonstrates how to navigate and complete a drag-and-drop exercise on the Macmillan Learning website using JAWS Drag n Drop screen reader commands. She begins by turning off the virtual cursor with “Insert + Z” and then tabs to the answer bank. To lift an answer, she presses “Space,” then uses “Shift + Tab” to move the item to the correct bin and presses “Space” again to drop it.

    She describes the process while placing items into three bins: Abundant Inputs, Mass Production, and Specialized Skills. As she navigates through the answer bank, she explains each action, ensuring clarity for users following along. For instance, when encountering the answer “Japan’s comparative advantage in automobile manufacturing,” Raveena picks up the item with “Space,” shift tabs to the correct bin, and drops it with “Space” again.

    Double Check Work after JAWS Drag n Drop

    drag n drop bins to place items

    Raveena emphasizes the importance of verifying answers. After placing an item, she recommends tabbing back to the answer bank to ensure no items are left. She also notes that when an item is correctly placed, JAWS will confirm it by saying “item dropped in.” If the item is incorrectly placed, it will say “placed in item,” prompting users to recheck their work.

    To submit the answers, Raveena turns the virtual cursor back on with “Insert + Z” and uses the “Control + F” command to search for the “Submit Answer” button. She enters “submit” and presses “Enter” to locate the button quickly. After submitting, JAWS provides feedback, indicating whether the answers were correct.

    Raveena concludes by highlighting the effectiveness of using these commands for JAWS drag n drop tasks. She encourages users to practice these steps to enhance their efficiency and accuracy when completing similar exercises. This method ensures that visually impaired users can fully engage with interactive online content, making learning accessible and manageable. JAWS Drag n Drop is just one component of learning advanced keyboard commands in College. Make sure you computer is working well to keep your screen reader happy.

    As a side note, getting a hobby like rock climbing, makes one well rounded as Raveena also demonstrates by scaling a wall at the Olympics.

    Find more with Desmos:

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    for STEM and Embossing in Desmos

    Desmos and inserting graphs into Math Work in WORD

    Creating shaded Parabolas in Desmos

    Lessons with Desmos with Drag and Drop

  • Perfect Digital Math at all levels using only audio or tactile Braille or both in Mathkicker.ai

    Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to use MathKicker.AI to complete various types of math with NVDA and UEB math. She begins by accessing a math problem in HTML format through a browser. Using outdated software, including NVDA on Windows 10, she shows how even older technology can effectively handle advanced math tasks.

    First, Dr. Robinson opens a math problem in Firefox, which currently translates math perfectly. She presses “Control + P” to print the page as a PDF, saving it to her downloads folder. Next, she switches to Chrome using “Windows + 3” and opens Math Kicker.AI, a tool designed for converting math problems. She uses the “Alt + C” command to start the conversion process.

    She navigates through MathKicker’s options using the applications key and selects UEB math code with NVDA commands. After selecting the PDF file, she waits for two chimes, indicating the conversion is complete. To begin solving the problem, she turns off the virtual cursor, moves to the problem area, and uses the “F2” key to break down the equation into individual components.

    She demonstrates how to solve the problem step by step, using commands like “Alt + B” to apply operations to both sides of the equation. She also uses “Control + R” to replace specific elements in the equation, simplifying the problem as she goes. After completing the math problem, she presses “F9” to review the LaTeX code, reinforcing her understanding of the math.

    Dr. Robinson explains how these steps ensure that even visually impaired students can solve advanced math problems with outdated technology. She emphasizes that Math Kicker.AI, combined with NVDA, allows for accurate UEB math transcription, making it accessible to a global audience. She concludes by encouraging viewers to use these methods to handle any type of math problem effectively. More NVDA and UEB Math videos here.

    Other Math Lessons

    Transcribe Math Images

    Quadratic Math

    STEM with Embossing

  • UEB Math with NVDA in WORD using unicode-LaTex or Braille -easy to advanced math

    Mathcat UEB in WORD
    Mathcat UEB in WORD

    Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to complete UEB math in Microsoft Word using NVDA and MathCAT in this video. She begins by showing how to download MathCAT, an essential add-on for NVDA. To do this, she presses “Insert + N” to open the NVDA menu, navigates to “Preferences,” then “Tools,” and selects the “Add-ons Store.” From there, she types “MathCAT” to find it and install it.

    After installing MathCAT, Dr. Robinson begins demonstrating basic math commands in Word. She starts by pressing “Alt + Equals” to insert an equation, then types a simple addition problem, such as “1 + 2 = 3.” She checks the Braille viewer to confirm that the equation displays correctly in UEB math. Using the arrow keys, she navigates through the equation, ensuring each character is correctly interpreted.

    Next, she demonstrates more complex equations. For example, she types “2x + 3 = 11” and highlights how NVDA reads the equation character by character. She emphasizes the importance of using arrow keys to review the entire equation, especially for those who rely solely on auditory feedback.

    LaTex and more Advanced MathCat NVDA in WORD Options

    Dr. Robinson also shows how to input advanced math symbols like the times sign and division symbol using backslash commands, such as “\times” and “\div.” She explains how these symbols are visually represented and confirms their accuracy in the Braille viewer.

    To demonstrate radicals, she uses the “\sqrt” command to insert a square root symbol, followed by an expression like “\sqrt{x+1} = 3.” She guides users through the process of checking and navigating through the equation using the arrow keys.

    Finally, Dr. Robinson addresses potential issues with inserting equations, such as when “Alt + Equals” doesn’t work correctly. She advises using “Alt + N” and navigating through the ribbon to insert equations manually if needed.

    This tutorial provides a guide for performing UEB math in Word using NVDA, ensuring accurate and accessible math solutions for users with visual impairments.

  • Quadratic Formulas with UEB Math or Nemeth and/or display with JAWS audio & MathCat

    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.

    Other Math Lessons:

    Transcribe Math Images

    Quadratic Math

    STEM with Embossing

    Perfect Digital Math

  • Hayes Learns Proper Word Setup for Accessible Math Using a Brailliant Braille Display

    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.

    Other Math Lessons

    Other Math Lessons:

    Transcribe Math Images

    Quadratic Math

    STEM with Embossing

    Perfect Digital Math

    JAWS and MathCat

    Unicode with UEB Math

    UEB Math with Jaws

    UEB LaTex math with Jaws

    Braille Math in WORD Editor-Multi-line

    Split Braille for Buffer Mode

    Braille Blaster

    More Desmos Lessons:

    Desmos 3D graphing

    for Geometry in Desmos

    for STEM and Embossing in Desmos

    Desmos and inserting graphs into Math Work in WORD

    Creating shaded Parabolas in Desmos

    Games with Desmos with Drag and Drop

    Drag n Drop in Macmillan Learning

    Creating Geometry Table

    Venn Diagram

    Solving inequalities

    Create Histogram

    Excel Trend line with Scatter Plot

    Other Excel Lessons that you can do in Sheets

    Flashcard Study

    Here is a younger student using the Braille Math Editor also.

  • Math & AI: Using MathKicker to Convert PDF Math into Accessible Word Documents

    Dr. Robinson introduces Mathify, now called Mathkicker.AI, an AI program designed to convert inaccessible math content into accessible formats. This tool is especially beneficial for the blind community, providing a solution for one of the most challenging aspects of accessible education: converting math from inaccessible formats into usable, accessible ones.

    In this tutorial, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to use Mathify to convert a PDF image file into a DOCX file. She focuses on a table of math, one of the most problematic types of files to translate. Dr. Robinson opens the file, which prompts a save and loads in a private window. This process is typically faster in a standard window.

    mathkicker options for converting inaccessible items to accessible into WORD

    As the document loads, Mathkicker.AI effectively transforms the original images of X and Y tables into accessible tables. These tables allow students to later convert them into graphs, giving them the ability to independently create and emboss their graphs. Dr. Robinson scrolls through the document, highlighting the images now converted into accurate math tables. Small squares around each equation make them easily identifiable.

    She explains that students can use the “Alt + Equals” command in Word’s math editor to navigate to the last cell in the table and type out their equations. This feature highlights how Mathify translates PDFs into accessible, editable text. The original PDF is titled “Equivalent Ratios Practice Number One.” It converts successfully into clear and accessible text.

    Now a New Mathkicker Editor

    Dr. Robinson emphasizes that Mathkicker AI continues to improve with user feedback. She notes her preference for left alignment and how the program adapts to these preferences. Despite being a new tool, Mathkicker excels at handling math and other content, making it a versatile resource. Dr. Robinson encourages viewers to use Mathkicker and look forward to more tutorials, as the program has continued to evolve and improve utilizing a Mathkicker editor now.

  • How to Prevent AI Cheating in Class and at Home

    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.

    chatgpt and curb classroom AI cheating

    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.

    Through these combined strategies, teachers can significantly reduce AI cheating, ensuring students learn and demonstrate true understanding.

    Teach the Need to WANT students to do the right thing

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  • Atlanta Teen Para‑Climber Raveena Alli Heads to the Switzerland Olympics

    Seventeen-year-old Olympic paraclimber Raveena Alli, a rising senior at Atlanta Girls’ School, is making waves in the world of paraclimbing. Born in India and blind since birth, Raveena has not let her visual impairment hinder her passion for climbing. She began climbing in second grade and has since become an elite para-athlete, representing Team USA. Raveena’s dedication and skill have already earned her numerous accolades, including a third-place finish at the 2022 Paraclimbing World Cup. This Olympic blind paraclimbing student is reaching new heights.

    Raveena climbing high on rock wall, speaker in her ears to listen to coach on next climb

    In the picture, Raveena Alli is seen scaling a high rock wall with determination. She wears a focused expression as she ascends, a small speaker in her ears. The speaker allows her to listen to her coach’s guidance, providing real-time feedback on her next moves. The scene captures both the physical and mental challenges she faces as a blind paraclimber, showcasing her remarkable ability to navigate the climb with her coach’s support, even without sight.

    Olympic Blind Student Para-climbing

    This year, Raveena is competing in the Para-climbing World Championships in Bern, Switzerland, a significant milestone in her climbing career. The competition, held from August 1-12, brings together top athletes from around the globe, all vying for the prestigious title. Raveena’s journey to the championships is a testament to her resilience and determination. She hopes to inspire others, particularly her blind peers, to pursue their dreams and recognize their unique abilities.

    Raveena’s ambitions extend beyond climbing; she also aspires to enter the legal field, focusing on human rights law. With a shortlist of colleges that includes Emory, UGA, and Georgetown, Raveena is preparing for a future where she can make a significant impact both in sports and in her professional life.

    Her story is not just about personal achievement but also about breaking barriers and challenging perceptions. Supported by her family, particularly her mother, who is her biggest cheerleader, Raveena continues to climb to new heights, both literally and figuratively. Her participation in the World Championships is just one step in her ongoing journey of empowerment and advocacy for people of all abilities (WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta,USA Climbing).

    Story to view

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  • Project Gutenberg: Free eBooks, Online Reading, and Self‑Publishing Tools

    Project Gutenberg offers Free eBooks Online Access with a vast collection of eBooks, enabling readers to access thousands of titles online for free. The platform focuses on making literature widely accessible, with a special emphasis on works that are in the public domain. Since its inception, Project Gutenberg has grown to include over 60,000 eBooks, covering a wide range of genres and subjects.

    Source: Project Gutenberg Self-Publishing – eBooks | Read eBooks online | Free eBooks

    The process of accessing eBooks on Project Gutenberg is straightforward. Users can browse the catalog by author, title, or subject. The platform also offers various formats, including plain text, HTML, and ePub, ensuring compatibility with different reading devices. Additionally, readers can choose to download eBooks or read them directly online, offering flexibility based on their preferences.

    Free eBooks Online Access & self-publishing

    One of the key features of Project Gutenberg is its self-publishing platform. Authors can publish their works independently, allowing for a diverse array of content beyond traditional publishing channels. This feature fosters a community of writers and readers, contributing to the continuous growth of the library. By offering a space for new and emerging authors, Project Gutenberg supports creative expression and the democratization of literature.

    image of project Gutenberg with images of over 70,000 free ebooks

    Project Gutenberg operates as a volunteer-driven initiative, relying on the contributions of individuals who digitize, proofread, and upload texts. This collaborative effort ensures the preservation and dissemination of literature, benefiting readers worldwide. The platform’s dedication to free access aligns with its mission to promote literacy and education globally.

    Thus, Project Gutenberg serves as a valuable online ebook resource for anyone interested in literature. Its extensive library, coupled with easy accessibility, makes it a go-to platform for readers and writers alike. By offering free eBooks and supporting self-publishing, Project Gutenberg continues to play a significant role in the literary landscape, fostering a love for reading and writing across the globe. More information on all things blind here. More information on Training

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