Dr. Robinson demonstrates RedShelf access with JAWS. Demonstrating how to efficiently navigate RedShelf Book: “Exploring Zoology: A Laboratory Guide, Third Edition” using the JAWS screen reader. She emphasizes the importance of pairing the book with tactile graphics for laboratory visuals, especially for unique creatures to make RedShelf access with JAWS more comprehensive.
Navigating RedShelf access with JAWS -“Exploring Zoology” Online Book
Dr. Robinson starts by instructing users to open the book, recommending the “Insert + F7” command to quickly access links and jump to a specific section when using RedShelf access with JAWS. To make navigation smoother, she suggests using “Control + Home” to return to the top of any page, ensuring quick access to the table of contents or other necessary sections. This approach helps avoid unnecessary content, allowing users to get straight to the relevant material.
For new users, she recommends first down-arrowing through the page to become familiar with its layout. However, for regular navigation, using bookmarks ensures that users can quickly return to where they left off can be used. To create a bookmark, users should navigate to the desired section, then use the RedShelf menu to save the location, enhancing their RedShelf access with JAWS experience.
While exploring chapters like “Chapter 1: Metric Weights and Measurements”, Dr. Robinson shows how users can navigate to exercises using “Control + Home” or tabbing through headings. She also recommends using “Insert + Down Arrow” to continuously read through a page. For more detailed or specific content, users can search for page numbers directly using the search box by pressing “Alt + Slash”.
Finally, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to use JAWS’ Picture Smart feature to analyze and extract text from images in the book. This feature, triggered by “Insert + Space” followed by “P” and “C”, helps users work with graphical data when using RedShelf access with JAWS. More Video Lessons on these types of commands. More Lesson Commands here
This method provides fully accessible navigation complex laboratory materials, making “Exploring Zoology” easy to use for blind students. More Navigation commands here.
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 remap a key on a keyboard using SharpKeys, which is especially useful for laptops that lack an Applications key. She explains that many screen readers require an Applications key, but not all laptops include one. By remapping an unused key, such as a backslash or the 2nd alt key, students can easily create an Applications key for their screen reader.
Remap keys on keyboard with sharp keys and screen reader commands
She begins by opening SharpKeys via the Start menu and typing “SharpKeys” into the search bar. Once opened, she navigates the menu with Tab and presses Alt + A to add a new key mapping. To identify the key to remap, she presses Alt + K and hits the backslash key. It’s a straightforward way to remap keys on keyboard devices.
The software recognizes the backslash as ISO Extra Key 0_56, making it easy to remap. Dr. Robinson then scrolls through the list using Down Arrow to find Special: Application E0_5D. After selecting it with Spacebar, she confirms the key mapping by pressing Enter.
To test the remapped key, she presses Windows + T to open the taskbar. She then uses the newly remapped key to access the Applications menu. Though the key is still labeled as backslash, it functions correctly as an Applications key. This technique to remap keys on keyboard setups helps users customize their experience.
Dr. Robinson emphasizes that this method allows blind users to easily remap keys without assistance. The entire process is accessible, making it useful for students relying on screen readers. The remapped Applications key provides full functionality, offering standard Applications key options. Remapping keys on keyboard devices can significantly improve accessibility for all users.
Dr. Robinson ensures that students can remap keys using SharpKeys independently, without needing assistance from a sighted person. She highlights that this process is accessible for blind users and fully supports screen readers.
After confirming the remapping, Dr. Robinson explains how this tool provides flexibility for students using different laptops. By remapping a nonessential key, they can create a functional Applications key, essential for many screen reader commands.
She encourages students to experiment with remapping other keys if needed. This flexibility allows users to personalize their keyboards to fit their preferences. More Screen Reader Lessons here
Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to use the Jaws Braille Math Editor for solving basic math problems. She begins by explaining the process of opening the editor using 3-7-4-6 space on the braille display. This command quickly opens the Jaws Braille Math Editor for users.
Once in the editor, she types “10 + 5 = 15” to show how math expressions are entered. The math editor automatically adds number signs before each number, ensuring the correct format. To hear the result, Dr. Robinson uses Insert + F1 for help and demonstrates how to navigate through the equation.
Next, she solves “20 + 5 = 25” and reminds students to carefully check for the number signs before each number. Dr. Robinson encourages the use of both hands when reading math, emphasizing the importance of tactile practice with the right hand and left hand.
Braille Math Editor Solution
She continues by solving additional problems, such as “30 + 6 = 36” and “40 + 7 = 47.” Each time, she reinforces the process of reading and checking the work with both hands. For every problem, Dr. Robinson ensures that students follow the correct commands to enter the math expression, then press Enter to insert the answer into Microsoft Word. The session effectively shows the benefits of using the Jaws Braille Math Editor.
Throughout the session, Dr. Robinson emphasizes the value of continuous practice and careful attention to the tactile input. She concludes the lesson with a final problem, “50 + 8 = 58,” guiding students through the steps of reading, checking, and inserting the equation. The Braille Math Editor, combined with the commands in JAWS, offers blind students a seamless way to solve and verify math problems independently.
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
Dr. Robinson introduces a lesson on using Microsoft Excel to solve math work, specifically focusing on inequalities and graphs. She begins by guiding students on how to put Excel in focus to tackle various math problems in Excel. This helps students to optimize their math work in Excel effectively. Next, she instructs them to create a template using a number line. To insert symbols like less than or greater than signs, students use the Alt + N and then U commands to insert bullets or symbols.
For students with a numpad, Alt + 7 and Alt + 9 quickly insert a hollow or solid bullet, respectively. For those without a numpad, they can use the Insert + Symbols option. Students then align their number line by inserting a bullet in the middle, ensuring four dashes on each side for perfect centering when solving math work in Excel.
To center content, students use the Applications key and press F. They adjust the horizontal and vertical alignment to ensure everything is perfectly centered. This is a useful step when handling math problems in Excel. After completing their problems, students select the content using Shift + Right Arrow and copy it using Ctrl + C. This entire process enhances their skills in doing math work in Excel.
When pasting into Microsoft Word with Ctrl + V, students have various formatting options. By pressing the Control key and right arrow, they can select different formatting options for their pasted content. They can also Alt H to home and V to paste and right arrow through options. This flexibility allows blind students to format and customize their graphs just like their sighted peers when solving math problems in Excel. After the student pastes an image, they press the Applications key and up arrow to select Alt Text and type the description. Once they finish typing, they press Ctrl + Space and C to close the navigation pane and return to the document.
Dr. Robinson concludes by showing examples of completed math problems in Excel and graphs, demonstrating how well-formatted the number lines and inequalities look. Blind students can confidently create hollow and solid bullets, as well as inequalities, just like other students, thanks to the accessible features in Excel. This process ensures they stay engaged in their learning, achieving the same results as their peers when doing math work in Excel. Make sure your display is working well.
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.
Typing with 3 Fingers on her laptop is made easier with practice and now she is typing 77 word per minute. This impressive feat shows Kaleigh typing 77 wpm flawlessly.
A young lady with three fingers can type at over 77 words per minute. She is using adaptive strategies to access the same technology as peers. Kaleigh typing 77 wpm highlights her exceptional skills. Kaleigh has been learning and using these special skills based on her fingers for years. She uses a regular laptop with JAWS screen reader to do all of her work.
For individuals typing with one finger on one hand and two fingers on the other, specialized typing techniques can help improve speed and accuracy. Focus on positioning both hands in the center of the keyboard on homerow so the left single finger can move around that side of the keys. With the right 2 fingers, 1 is on the space bar at all times while other finger moves arund and presses keys. Moving together with a lot of practice, speed is gained. Start with slow, deliberate typing to reduce errors and gradually build up speed. Mastering typing speed similar to Kaleigh’s, started with such methods. Regular practice with phrases like “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog” helps improve finger coordination. One such success story celebrating progress is Kaleigh typing 77 wpm.
With determination and keyboard practice with lots of instruction, students can accomplish anything. Kaleigh typing 77 wpm is a testament to this. See her series of progress.
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.
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 in 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. YouTube Lessons:
