Picture of braille display, keyboard and iPhone for who we are and what we do
Our Mission
TechVision’s mission and purpose is to empower blind and visually impaired students through personalized, real‑time instruction in assistive technology, braille, STEM, and essential academic skills. Led by Dr. Denise M. Robinson, our specialists teach the tools and strategies students need to access information, build independence, and compete equally with their sighted peers.
What We Do
TechVision provides 1:1 remote instruction for learners of all ages. Our team teaches:
What others use only through access methods such as but not limited to:
AI‑supported learning strategies This direct, individualized approach transforms how blind and low‑vision students learn, work, and navigate the world, staying true to our mission and purpose.
Screen readers
Braille displays
Computers and mobile devices
Word processing and productivity tools
All academic classes and especially: Math, STEM, Nemeth, and all literacy
Why Our Work Matters
TechVision also trains school personnel — including transcribers, Teachers of the Blind, Teachers and support staff — to ensure students receive consistent, accessible materials. We partner with districts, families, and private organizations to create inclusive environments where blind and visually impaired individuals can thrive, fulfilling our mission and purpose.
Designed Instruction for Every Learner
We teach learners of all ages. Every student receives customized instruction based on their goals, strengths, and needs. Whether developing early childhood skills, mastering advanced mathematics, learning to use a braille display, preparing for college and employment, or adapting to vision loss later in life, our instruction meets each learner exactly where they are. Many of our students go on to pursue STEM fields, including Applied Mathematics at top universities.
The TechVision YouTube channel, created by Dr. Denise M. Robinson and her Team, offers hundreds of free, accessible video lessons. These lessons focus on empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired through technology education. The channel covers a wide range of topics, making it useful for students, educators, and parents.
Each video provides hands-on, step-by-step tutorials for using assistive technology. Viewers can learn to use screen readers, magnification tools, and braille displays. The lessons also include detailed instructions on using programs like Microsoft Office and Google applications. This practical approach helps users apply technology to real-world tasks.
Creating a histogram in Excel using keyboard commands makes data analysis quick and efficient. First, select your data with Shift + Arrow Keys. Then, insert the chart using Alt + N, followed by H to choose a histogram. This process allows you to visualize data distributions without a mouse, making it both accessible and streamlined. By using these simple commands, you can create effective histograms in just a few steps.
To create a graph in Excel using keyboard commands:
Select Data: Highlight the data using Shift + Arrow Keys.
Insert Chart: Press Alt + N to open the Insert tab.
Open Histogram Option: Press H to select the Histogram option from the Charts menu.
Choose Histogram: Use Arrow Keys to navigate and press Enter to insert the histogram.
A quadratic trendline with a scatter plot shows the relationship between two sets of data that form a curved pattern. Instead of a straight line, it fits a U-shaped or upside-down U-shaped curve, helping to see trends when data increases or decreases at different rates. Using an Excel Quadratic Trendline with scatter plot makes it useful for predicting changes that don’t happen in a straight line, like acceleration or deceleration. The equation on the graph helps explain this relationship and can be used for future predictions.
Using keyboard commands in Excel, combined with JAWS screen reader, makes it possible to create a quadratic trendline on a scatter plot while also displaying the equation. This process is essential for visually impaired users who need accessible methods to perform complex data analysis. By using commands like Alt + N + S to insert the scatter plot and Alt + J + F to add the quadratic trendline and display the equation, you can efficiently work with Excel’s graphing tools while maintaining full accessibility with JAWS.
Excel Quadratic Trendline with scatter plot Keyboard commands
Excel Quadratic Trendline with scatter plot
Here are the keyboard commands to add a quadratic trendline with a scatter plot and display the equation in Excel using JAWS:
Create Scatter Plot:
Select data with Shift + Arrow Keys.
Press Alt + N, then S to insert a scatter plot.
Add Quadratic Trendline:
Select the graph with Arrow Keys.
Press Alt + J + F, then A for chart options.
Press T to add a trendline, then press Q for polynomial (quadratic).
Show Equation:
Press Alt + J + F, then T to show the trendline equation on the chart.
A blind student has demonstrated remarkable skills by completing complex Excel graphs and seamlessly integrating them into PowerPoint presentations. This achievement in Excel Graphs and PowerPoint Integration highlights the potential of assistive technologies and the importance of accessibility in education. He got an A on this project.
A blind student successfully completes sophisticated Excel graphs, showcasing their proficiency with assistive technology. They seamlessly insert these graphs into PowerPoint, showcasing their ability to integrate complex data into presentations. This demonstrates their proficiency with both Excel and PowerPoint, highlighting their technical skills. This process involves several steps:
Creating the Graph in Excel:
Data Entry: The student inputs data into Excel using keyboard commands and screen reader software like JAWS.
Graph Creation: Using commands such as Alt + N + S to insert a scatter plot and Alt + J + F to add a trendline, the student creates a detailed graph.
Customization: The graph is customized by adding titles, labels, and trendlines, ensuring all elements are accessible and correctly formatted.
Inserting the Graph into PowerPoint:
Copying the Graph: The student uses Ctrl + C to copy the graph from Excel.
Insert Graph: He has used the insert menu to insert graphs on the slides
Pasting into PowerPoint: Using Ctrl + V, the graph is pasted into a PowerPoint slide, where it can be further edited and formatted.
Kaleigh, one of my (Dr Robinson) students since 2007, learned to Complete an excel graph in this lesson. She began with in-person lessons before transitioning to remote instruction. My husband and I moved 3,000 miles away to care for his parents, and we continued lessons via Skype, later advancing to Zoom. Over time, Kaleigh progressed from basic lessons to more sophisticated ones, covering her educational needs from third grade through graduation. By the time she finished, she was fully prepared for college and capable of completing all the work necessary to succeed in her future academic endeavors.
In this lesson, I teach her to navigate Excel using keyboard commands. She starts by creating a new document with CTRL + N and merges cells using ALT + H, M to set up graph labels. She inputs data from her Braille Display, with Excel’s talking software aiding her understanding. As she works on the histogram, she ensure she selects the correct cells and counts for the X and Y axes. She then adds and formats axis titles using ALT + J, A, I, adjusting the text orientation as needed.
Encouragement is Key
I consistently encourage her to check her data, ensuring she relies on assistive technology for accuracy. For formatting, she uses CTRL + C and CTRL + V to copy and paste sections, speeding up the process. We also cover coloring the graph, where I allow her to choose colors freely. I advise her to use consistent formats for simplicity. She shades sections of the histogram based on her data, using keyboard commands to control her workflow efficiently. This reinforces her independence and accuracy throughout the lesson.
Complete an excel graph Settings Option
After finishing the graph, she reviews her work using CTRL + Home to ensure all elements are correct. Satisfied, she copies the graph into Word and prepares to email it. This exercise demonstrates her effective use of keyboard shortcuts and assistive technology. Her growing independence in mastering Excel for academic tasks shows through her efficient and accurate work. The lesson highlights how the student combines guidance and technology to complete a detailed graph with confidence.
Remote Instruction via access Technology-Finish Real Work in Real Time
Empowering Blind & Visually Impaired Students Through Technology and Direct Instruction-Access Technology that Gives you Vision
Offering Personalized 1:1 remote instruction in technology, Braille, Nemeth, and essential blind skills — for students of all ages, anywhere in the world, enhances their educational access. These services ensure all can access educational opportunities effectively.
Founded in 2007 by Dr. Denise M. Robinson, a global leader in remote instruction for blind and low-vision education, TechVision brings together a nationally recognized team of blind education specialists, access technology experts, transcribers, and certified braille instructors. The team delivers expert training in access technology, braille, braille math code, screen readers, and comprehensive academic accessibility. Through real-time, individualized instruction, TechVision equips blind learners of all ages to participate equally, work independently, and succeed across educational and professional environments.
What We Do: Educational Access
We Provide:
Support for families, schools, transition programs, and vocational rehabilitation with the goal of improving access to education.
1:1 specialized instruction in technology, Braille, Nemeth, and all academic access through use of a computer.
Training for school teams — Teachers of the Blind & Visually Impaired, transcribers, paras, and School staff
Technology setup & independence training using screen readers, braille displays, and computers
The TechVision Difference
TechVision, LLC transforms lives through personalized, real‑time remote instruction. Our team equips blind and visually impaired students and clients with the technology skills they need to compete equally with their sighted peers — in school, work, and life. We collaborate with families, districts, and agencies worldwide to ensure every learner has educational access and independence.
Why Educational Access Matters
With cutting‑edge tools — computers, screen readers, braille displays, and smartphones — our students learn to access information, navigate their world, and build independence. TechVision empowers learners to step into education and employment with the same opportunities as their sighted peers.
Who We Serve
College students needing support for educational access
Young adults
Adults returning to work
Anyone needing access to their world
Real 1:1 TechVision Instruction
Students learning to create graphs, write documents, code, and navigate technology independently. Doing Everything their peers are doing.
The most modern way as of 2024 to adapt work for blind or low vision students is using programs like MathKicker.ai, WORD Immersive Reader and Google Docs, follow these steps to ensure full accessibility for both English, Math and other content:
Use MathKicker.ai for Math Content:
Upload or paste math equations into MathKicker.ai. This tool converts complex math problems into formats accessible for screen readers like JAWS or NVDA.
Once converted, paste the accessible math text into Google Docs or other word processing platforms for students to use with their screen readers.
Convert Images to Descriptive Text in Google Docs:
When images contain important information, use Google Docs’ built-in alt text feature. Right-click the image, select “Alt text,” and enter a detailed description of the image, focusing on its relevance to the content.
For math-specific images (e.g., graphs, equations), describe the visual elements and provide the corresponding math in text form or, if needed, through MathKicker.ai to ensure clarity for students using auditory or Braille output.
How to Adapt Work and Why
3. Leverage Google Docs Collaboration Features:
Share Google Docs with students, allowing them to access the document using their preferred screen reader.
Enable real-time collaboration by ensuring that students can work in the document with peers or teachers, making the experience inclusive.
4. Use Heading and Structure Tools:
Make sure to structure documents with proper headings and styles in Google Docs to aid screen readers in navigating the document efficiently.
By combining MathKicker.ai for math accessibility and using Google Docs to convert visual content into descriptive text, blind or low vision students can access both English and math content effectively.
There are many ways to adapt work for inclusion. Inaccessible work creates barriers—choose the right tools, because together we achieve more than apart.
Many people wonder what does legally blind look like? In fact, visual acuity below 20/200 qualifies as legally blind. To actually fit the definition, the person must not be able to attain 20/200 vision even with prescription eye wear. People with legal blindness can function effectively in daily life using appropriate glasses or contact lenses.
Educational Definition for Services
Under the new criteria, if a person’s visual acuity is measured with one of the newer charts, and they cannot read any of the letters on the 20/100 line, they will qualify as legally blind, based on a visual acuity of 20/200 or less. Based on acuity Work will need to be adapted.
This vision means that a person sees at 20 feet what someone with normal vision sees at 70 feet. It is a form of visual impairment classified as mild low vision. Here’s a breakdown of what this means and its implications: Based on diagnosis, this acuity can get worse throughout the day.
1. Definition of 20/70 Vision
In a standard eye exam, the results are written as a fraction, with 20/20 being considered normal vision.
The first number (20) refers to the distance (in feet) from which a person views an object.
The second number (70) indicates the distance at which a person with normal vision can see the same object with clarity.
Thus, someone with 20/70 vision must be closer to an object (20 feet away) to see it as clearly as a person with 20/20 vision can from 70 feet.
2. Implications of 20/70 Vision
Legally Not Blind: This level of vision does not qualify as legal blindness, which is defined as 20/200 or worse with corrective lenses.
Difficulty with Certain Tasks: Individuals with 20/70 vision may struggle with tasks requiring clear distance vision, such as reading road signs, recognizing faces from a distance, or seeing objects clearly in low-light conditions.
Daily Life Adjustments: Depending on the person’s environment, they may need glasses or contact lenses to enhance their vision for specific tasks. However, vision aids may not fully restore perfect clarity.
3. Corrective Measures
Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: Many individuals with 20/70 vision wear corrective lenses to improve visual acuity.
Low Vision Aids: Some people might benefit from magnifying devices, large-print materials, or enhanced lighting to assist with reading or other close-up tasks.
Adaptive Technology: Screen magnifiers, larger fonts on digital devices, and software that enhances visual contrast can also help improve accessibility for people with 20/70 vision.
4. Potential Causes
Refractive Errors: Conditions like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism can result in 20/70 vision if not corrected.
Eye Diseases: Conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy may cause a person’s vision to deteriorate to 20/70.
Age-Related Changes: Vision often declines naturally with age, and some individuals may experience 20/70 vision due to presbyopia or other age-related conditions.
5. Treatment and Management
Regular eye exams are essential to monitor vision changes.
Wearing prescribed corrective lenses and using adaptive aids can help individuals maintain independence and improve their quality of life.
Early detection of underlying conditions (e.g., glaucoma or cataracts) through eye exams can prevent further vision loss.
In summary, 20/70 vision reflects a moderate visual impairment. While it can pose challenges for certain activities, corrective measures and assistive technologies can significantly enhance visual functioning and quality of life.
all acuity levels compared
20/100 vision means that a person sees at 20 feet what someone with normal vision can see clearly at 100 feet. This level of visual acuity is considered moderate low vision. Here’s a detailed explanation of what 20/100 vision means and its implications:
1. Definition of 20/100 Vision
Visual Acuity Measurement: Vision is typically measured using a Snellen eye chart, and the result is expressed as a fraction. The first number (20) represents the distance at which the person is standing from the chart. The second number (100) indicates the distance at which a person with normal vision (20/20) can see the same object clearly.
Therefore, a person with 20/100 vision must be much closer to an object (20 feet away) to see it clearly, while someone with normal vision can see it clearly from 100 feet away.
2. Implications of 20/100 Vision
People with 20/100 vision are considered legally visually impaired. However, this does not meet the definition of legal blindness, which is 20/200 or worse. Even with corrective lenses, they fall under the low vision category. This means normal vision remains unattainable.
When it comes to daily tasks, they often struggle with seeing distant objects clearly. For instance, they may have trouble reading signs from far away. Recognizing faces across a room or on the street is also challenging. Watching TV or presentations requires sitting close. Driving presents challenges, as they may not clearly see signs or signals from a safe distance.
Close-up tasks can be easier for those with 20/100 vision. Reading or using a computer may not be as difficult. However, many still require magnification or adaptive tools to assist with these activities.
Driving: In many regions, individuals with 20/100 vision may not meet the vision requirements for driving. Driving may be possible with special accommodations or vision aids, but restrictions usually apply.
Work and Education: Individuals with 20/100 vision may need accommodations in the workplace or classroom, such as enlarged print materials, magnifiers, or assistive software. Special seating or devices may also be necessary to ensure they can participate fully.
Mobility: While 20/100 vision allows for some independent movement, it can still make navigating unfamiliar environments more challenging. Some individuals may benefit from mobility aids like a cane or guide dog in certain situations. Based on diagnosis, 20/100 can change to 20/200 or worse during any day at school or work based on eye fatigue.
Different levels of Vision Loss to easily compare:
20/20 visual acuity to see people clearly in distance20/200 seeing blurry people in the distance20/400 acuity seeing people extremely blurry in distance
What legally blind looks like and is:
20/200 vision is a severe level of visual impairment and is often classified as legal blindness in many regions. It means that a person with this level of vision can see at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see clearly at 200 feet. Here’s an overview of 20/200 vision and its implications: Technology has changed everything toward independence, including AI apps that will transcribe the inaccessible to accessible for you what you cannot see
1. Definition of 20/200 Vision
In an eye exam, vision is expressed as a fraction. The first number (20) refers to the distance (in feet) from which the person views an object. The second number (200) indicates the distance at which a person with normal vision can see the same object clearly.
Therefore, someone with 20/200 vision must be much closer to an object (20 feet away) to see it with clarity, while a person with normal vision can see it clearly from 200 feet away.
2. Legal Blindness
Legally Blind: A person with 20/200 vision is considered legally blind. Legal blindness is defined as having a visual acuity of 20/200 or worse in the better eye with the best possible corrective lenses.
Low Vision Category: While legally blind, individuals with 20/200 vision may still have some functional sight. They fall under the category of low vision, meaning that although their vision is severely impaired, they can still benefit from visual aids.
3. Impact on Daily Life
Challenges with Distance Vision: Individuals with 20/200 vision have significant difficulty seeing objects, signs, or faces at a distance. Recognizing faces across a room, reading road signs while driving, or watching TV from a typical distance can be very challenging or impossible.
Mobility and Orientation: Moving through unfamiliar environments may require assistance or adaptations. People with 20/200 vision often need to use mobility aids, such as a white cane or guide dog, to navigate safely.
Reading and Close-Up Work: Although close-up vision may be better, people with 20/200 vision often require magnifiers or other visual aids for reading or detailed work.
4. Corrective Measures
Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: In some cases, corrective lenses may slightly improve vision. However, they often cannot bring a person’s vision to normal (20/20) levels when the vision loss is significant.
Low Vision Aids: Various devices can assist people with 20/200 vision in their daily lives, including:
Magnifiers: Handheld or electronic magnifiers for reading and detailed work.
Screen Readers: Digital devices or computers with screen readers that convert text to speech.
CCTV Systems: Closed-circuit television systems that enlarge printed text or images onto a screen.
Large-Print Materials: Books and materials with large text can make reading easier.
5. Driving Restrictions
Not Eligible for Driving: In most countries and regions, individuals with 20/200 vision are not permitted to drive. Driving requires a higher level of visual acuity to safely recognize signs, signals, and hazards.
6. Assistive Technology and Adaptations
Adaptive Technologies: Screen readers, screen magnifiers, and voice commands on computers and smartphones help individuals with 20/200 vision engage with digital content.
Environmental Modifications: Enhanced lighting, contrast modifications, and large-text displays make daily tasks like reading, working, and navigating spaces easier.
Orientation and Mobility Training: People with 20/200 vision need O&M (orientation and mobility) training to help them navigate safely and independently using mobility aids or techniques.
20/800 vision is a severe visual impairment often classified as profound low vision or near-total blindness. This means a person with 20/800 vision can see at 20 feet what someone with normal vision sees at 800 feet. Consequently, this level of impairment presents significant challenges for daily functioning. Even with corrective lenses, the limitations remain.
1. Definition of 20/800 Vision
A person with 20/800 vision must be 20 feet away to see something that a person with normal vision can see clearly from 800 feet. This substantial loss of visual acuity severely limits the ability to see details at any distance.
2. Legal Blindness and Classification
Individuals with 20/800 vision fall under the category of profound low vision. Although some residual vision may remain, it is limited. People with 20/800 vision are legally blind. Legal blindness is defined as having a visual acuity of 20/200 or worse in the better eye, even with corrective lenses.
3. Impact on Daily Life
People with 20/800 vision face significant visual challenges in everyday tasks. They may struggle with activities such as reading, recognizing faces, or navigating unfamiliar environments. Even simple tasks like watching TV or identifying objects across a room are often inaccessible. As a result, they must rely on non-visual cues such as tactile or auditory information. This helps them navigate their surroundings and accomplish tasks.
4. Corrective Measures
Although corrective lenses offer limited improvement for individuals with 20/800 vision, magnifiers or other visual aids may enhance any remaining vision for specific tasks. However, many people with this level of impairment depend on advanced assistive technologies. Screen readers, braille displays, and text magnifiers help them access information. Voice-controlled devices enable hands-free interaction with technology. Additionally, orientation and mobility aids, such as white canes or guide dogs, help individuals move safely.
5. Causes of 20/800 Vision
Congenital conditions, like Retinitis Pigmentosa or Optic Nerve Hypoplasia, often lead to severe vision loss. Progressive eye diseases such as Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, or Diabetic Retinopathy can also cause vision to deteriorate to 20/800. Additionally, trauma or injury to the eye may result in permanent vision impairment.
6. Mobility and Independence
People with 20/800 vision rely on white canes, guide dogs, or assistance to travel safely. Orientation and mobility training teaches them how to use these aids effectively. This training also helps them develop strategies for moving confidently through public spaces. Some individuals also use adaptive techniques like echolocation to supplement their remaining vision.
7. Driving Restrictions
Due to the severity of the impairment, individuals with 20/800 vision are not permitted to drive.
8. Support and Resources
Low vision rehabilitation programs provide essential training in daily living skills, technology use, and mobility techniques. These programs enable individuals with 20/800 vision to maximize their remaining vision. Various organizations offer services such as guide dog training, braille literacy, and mobility aid instruction. Vision loss support groups also offer emotional and practical support for those facing similar challenges.
Result
20/800 vision represents profound visual impairment, often resulting in near-total blindness. People with this condition face substantial challenges in daily life. However, they can rely on assistive technology, mobility aids, and rehabilitation services to maintain independence. While corrective lenses may offer limited improvement, adaptive tools and strategies help individuals with 20/800 vision engage in work, education, and social activities successfully.
Now, you can get an idea of what a visual impairment actually looks like. Educational Services starting at youngest age possible but no later than age 3 years old is crucial.
Understanding Vision in Children: What Visual Acuity Really Means
Essential WORD keyboard commands to help teachers who teach blind with talking software or sighted who just want to move faster. These are some of the most essential commands everyone should know, especially those mastering the essential commands for WORD keyboard users.
Here’s a summary of essential WORD keyboard commands for video users.
Keyboard shortcuts for all WORD versions.
Open Word: Press Windows + 5 to start Word from the taskbar.
Zoom In: Use Alt + V + Z to zoom to 200%.
Change Defaults:
Open Paragraph Spacing: Press Alt + O + P.
Set Spacing to Single: Press Alt + P and change to single spacing.
Set Default for All Documents: Press Alt + D followed by Alt + A and then Enter.
Customize Document further
Change Font:
Select All Text: Press Ctrl + A.
Open Font Dialog: Press Ctrl + D.
Change Font to Times New Roman: Type “Times New Roman” and set size to 12.
Set Default for All Documents: Press Alt + D followed by Alt + A and then Enter.
Create Columns:
Open Page Layout: Press Alt + P.
Select Columns: Press J for columns.
Set Number of Columns: Press Alt + O + C and choose the number of columns.
Change Page Color:
Open Page Layout: Press Alt + P.
Open Colors: Press PC.
Select Color: Use arrow keys to choose a color and press Enter.
Add Border:
Open Borders: Press Alt + O + B.
These commands will help you efficiently navigate and customize documents. See other Setup options
Essential WORD keyboard commands for windows page setup for defaults
You can perform all these tasks using current PDF versions, even with inaccessible scanned images. First, demonstrate how to write text directly on scanned PDFs, then save the edited file. Next, show students how to type directly on PDF and email the completed PDF to their teacher for submission. Perfect touch typing is always preferred for ease.
For low vision users, all math content with voice output offers additional support. Combine this tool with text manipulation in PDFs to make materials more accessible. This approach ensures students can interact with complex materials efficiently, despite any visual challenges.
Here are some useful keyboard commands for working with PDFs in Adobe Acrobat, focusing on enlarging the screen and typing on the document:
Type directly on PDF commands
Enlarge Screen (Zoom In/Out)
Zoom In:
Press Ctrl + + (Plus sign) on Windows.
Press Cmd + + (Plus sign) on Mac.
Zoom Out:
Press Ctrl + - (Minus sign) on Windows.
Press Cmd + - (Minus sign) on Mac.
Fit to Screen:
Press Ctrl + 0 (Zero) on Windows.
Press Cmd + 0 (Zero) on Mac.
Typing on a PDF
Type Directly on PDF
Add Text:
Select the Text Box Tool by pressing Ctrl + Shift + T on Windows.
On Mac, you might need to manually select the tool from the toolbar.
Type in a Form Field:
Navigate to the form field using the Tab key.
Press Enter to start typing.
Add a Comment:
Press Ctrl + 6 to open the comment tool on Windows.
