What Screen Readers Can’t See: A Wake-Up Call for Educators
Many teachers rely on tools like Snip & Clip or download entire packets of image-based worksheets. But it’s important to understand that most resources on popular teacher websites—especially those behind paywalls—are completely inaccessible to blind and low vision students. These materials are often just images or scanned PDFs. Consequently, screen readers can’t read this type of content at all.
This video demonstrates how these inaccessible formats appear to a screen reader user. It shows how nothing reads, nothing speaks, and the content remains out of reach.
It also shows how older students who have been taught tech skills for years, transcribers or teachers, can quickly make the material accessible. This is especially helpful for a screen reader user who is not yet able to do it independently.
Google slide image of work-all inaccessible to a screen reader user
Commands to know: Use EDGE and its built in AI with -CTRL+Shift+period, so the AI can see the pages you are on. (Do not do banking of any kind without using a private window and a non-AI browser.)
Watch the video to get all the steps down. It can change your life to the inaccessible world. Alternatively, transcribers and teachers can do it for you until you learn the skills well yourself.
Other School Platforms that are inaccessible can be resolved with this solution also now
FOR the Blind-VI, Transcribers, etc. learning to your needs
Professional development for teachers and other personnel is generally designed for the broader teaching community. However, teachers of the blind and visually impaired can request specialized instruction on these days. TechVision offers tailored learning experiences for teaching and learning with screen readers, braille displays, and other access technology. With TechVision, educators can acquire the specific skills needed to help their students learn and access education. This Professional Development for Teachers allows their students to be on the same level as their peers over time. It also helps teachers develop tech competencies for the year. Specialized professional development helps to guide and ensure that all students, regardless of their visual abilities, can compete on an equal footing with their sighted peers.
It’s that time of year when everyone signs up for professional hours. You can join the Regular Pack, but if you need something specific for teachers of the blind, TechVision offers specialized instruction. Learn how to teach students and develop your own skills, including transcriber skills. Professional Development for Teachers often includes learning how to deal with specialized educational needs. Contact TechVision Training to learn like our students who use screen readers.
Learn math, low vision tricks, and screen reader commands. Learn all things Google, braille embossers, and Tiger software. Master JAWS or NVDA commands, browser skills, and voice profiles. We teach everything, from box and whiskers in Excel or Google to formatting APA and MLA papers in Google Docs or Word. Learn PowerPoint or Google Slides, making them accessible and visually appealing. We offer professional development throughout the year, including one-on-one or group sessions. This ensures that during big professional development days, you are already well-prepared for exactly what you need to learn. TechVision provides another avenue to learn the skills necessary to teach your students effectively with Professional Development for Teachers. Let us know if we can help: TechVisiontraining@yourtechvision.com. In the meantime, improve the speed of your computer.
Professional hours list and you add what you need
Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers and More
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
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.
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.
Desmos, JAWS, and Embossing: Enhancing STEM Learning for Visually Impaired Students
Access graphing and digital tools with screen readers for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These tools provide graphing access, enabling students with blindness or low vision to excel in STEM fields. For instance, they can utilize graphing capabilities on the computer by employing DESMOS graphing calculator and other Desmos solutions, just as peers. Moreover, Blind students can access STEM. They can emboss graphs, feeling content in real time. By using screen readers like JAWS or NVDA, braille displays and embossers, they can emboss out a graph to “see” what it feels like to finish STEM work quickly and efficiently.
Access to STEM begins with a PC equipped with screen readers like JAWS and refreshable braille displays. With these tools, you can explore integrated accessibility features and learn to configure JAWS and Fusion on the Desmos Accessibility page. Additionally, audio features, provided by Desmos, give spoken graph summaries, audible readings of points, coordinates, and more. Therefore, Desmos with JAWS and Embossing Techniques enables blind students to access STEM anytime.
Furthermore, TechVision site offers more STEM options, expanding information for other lessons on Desmos, graphing and math in full details including AI programs to enable students to complete math to the most advanced levels using Mathkicker.AI to compete with sighted peers at any level.
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.
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.
