Search results for: “windows 11”

  • 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!

  • UEB Math with JAWS in Word: Using Unicode, LaTeX, and Braille for Easy to Advanced Math

    Dr. Robinson introduces the latest Vispero update for JAWS, focusing on reading UEB math. To get started, she demonstrates how to configure JAWS settings for optimal performance with UEB math. She begins by pressing “Insert + 6” to access the JAWS settings. Then use “Control + Shift + D” to set the default profile.

    Setup MathCat for UEB Math with Jaws

    Dr. Robinson guides users through setting up Braille mode via Default profile by typing it in the edit box. She types “Braille Mode” in the search box, and F6 to access different settings. She uses “F6” to navigate to the desired options, then “Alt + F” to select language profiles. To access MathCat option via alt D to details then tab to Nemeth and change to MathCat then OK.

    Dr. Robinson explains how to select the correct Braille code, such as UEB math with JAWS or Nemeth code. She walks through the process of applying these settings and closing the settings dialog.

    Once set up, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to solve math problems using JAWS in Word. Dr Robinson explains the process of entering equations using “Alt + Equals” to open the math editor. She highlights how to type out equations, like “X squared plus 3 equals 11.” Then how to navigate through the math content using keyboard commands.

    She also explains complex math using UEB Math with Jaws, such as using square roots and other mathematical symbols, by using Unicode and LaTeX commands. Dr. Robinson shows the equation tools in Word by pressing “Alt + J” E to equation menu. Then explains how to convert equations between professional and linear formats using “Alt + JE + C.”

    Throughout the tutorial, Dr. Robinson ensures users understand the commands necessary for navigating and editing math content effectively. She also provides troubleshooting tips, such as using the Math Viewer with insert space + = . This gives more detailed navigation of hearing each symbol, particularly useful for more complex equations.

    Dr. Robinson concludes by encouraging users to explore more advanced math problems and settings. This ensures that they can confidently use JAWS for UEB math in various applications. If you experience computer issues in general, set it up to work the most efficiently with screen readers.

    Other Math Lessons:

    Transcribe Math Images

    Quadratic Math

    STEM with Embossing

    Perfect Digital Math

    JAWS and MathCat

  • Transcribing Math Images into Perfect Word Math Editor Equations Using MathKicker.ai and Expert Transcriber Techniques

    Dr. Robinson demonstrates how transcribers can efficiently convert math images into text using accessible Word documents and MathKicker.AI. She begins by showing how to identify an image containing a math problem. Note, that it turns blue when clicked and often appears blurry for a hint of inaccessible. To convert the image, she uses the “Windows + Shift + S” command to capture the image, then pastes it into MathKicker using “Alt + V.” After converting the image, she opens the document in Word.

    Dr. Robinson advises transcribers to compare the original image with the converted text to ensure accuracy. She recommends using “F12” to save the document and “Alt + D” to choose the save location. For side-by-side comparison, she suggests using “Alt + Space” and “R” to restore and resize the windows.

    For Transcribers to convert math images into text

    To describe number lines or graphs, transcribers should write out the details, such as the range and direction of the line. Dr. Robinson also shows how to add alt text to images by right-clicking and selecting “View Alt Text.” This feature is particularly useful for visually impaired students who rely on screen readers.

    For inequalities and other math problems, Dr. Robinson explains how to use Desmos, a graphing calculator tool. She demonstrates how to type equations into Desmos and capture the graph using “Alt + Print Screen.” The captured graph can then be pasted into the Word document, and additional descriptions should be provided for clarity.

    Finally, Dr. Robinson emphasizes the importance of proofreading and adjusting the text to ensure it accurately represents the math content. She encourages transcribers to use MathKicker for quick and accurate transcriptions, highlighting its ability to create accessible math documents efficiently.

    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

    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

  • Accessible Venn Diagrams with a Screen Reader: How Blind Students Navigate and Understand Overlapping Sets

    Accessible Venn Diagrams with a Screen Reader: How Blind Students Navigate and Understand Overlapping Sets

    Using Venn diagrams with screen readers involves strategic design and specific keyboard commands to ensure accessibility. Each set in the diagram must have clear, descriptive labels to guide screen reader users effectively. These labels help users understand the content without needing visual cues. Alt text plays a crucial role by summarizing the Venn diagram’s purpose, the sets involved, and their intersections. This concise description enables screen reader users to grasp the diagram’s structure and intent.

    Keyboard navigation is essential for screen reader users to interact with Venn diagrams. The Tab key allows users to move through interactive elements like text boxes or linked descriptions associated with the diagram. Arrow keys are useful for navigating within tables or text boxes that describe the diagram’s content. This functionality ensures that users can access all relevant information without relying on visual input.

    Screen Reader Venn Diagram Commands

    Screen reader software, like JAWS or NVDA, includes commands that facilitate navigation. In JAWS, the Ctrl+H command lets users jump between headings, making it easier to navigate through complex content. NVDA users can use the Ctrl+Alt+Arrow keys to move between headings or landmarks within a webpage or document. These commands are vital for quickly accessing different parts of the content related to the Venn diagram.

    Incorporating structured content enhances the usability of Venn diagrams for screen reader users. Headings, bullet points, and numbered lists help break down complex information into manageable sections. This structure allows users to follow the logical flow of information without confusion. So, Screen reader users can also navigate through tables that complement the Venn diagram. Tables list elements within each set and describe intersections, making the relationships between sets clear. JAWS users can move horizontally between cells using Ctrl+Alt+Right/Left Arrow keys, and vertically with Ctrl+Alt+Up/Down Arrow keys.

    image of a 3 ringed screen reader Venn Diagram to add information from a download link

    Careful Planning

    Creating accessible Venn diagrams for screen reader users requires careful planning. By using descriptive text, alt text, structured content, and keyboard commands, educators and content creators can ensure that all users, including those who rely on screen readers, can effectively interact with and understand Venn diagrams. These strategies are essential for making complex visual information accessible to everyone. More Video Lessons here

    Create your Venn Diagram via WORD and shapes, applications key to move to back or forward then use these commands to access: Venn Diagram-Accessible

    Ctrl Shift O to all objects, escape when done writing, select object then tab through all objects to access A, B and other combo letters. Once open in Google, Alt f to file and d to download as Word doc. Then F12 for save as and Ctrl Shift O will work correctly. This will NOT work in Google.

    When done, have student emboss off a copy to feel what it is like and if you are having computer issues, tweak it to work better with screen reader.

    Another lesson that occurs in school: Family Tree with Smart Art and screen reader

    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

    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

  • Remapping Keyboard Keys with SharpKeys While Avoiding JAWS and NVDA Screen Reader Conflicts

    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.

    image of sharpkeys and select on the left side pane what you want to change it to on right side pane

    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

  • Select Noncontiguous folders and files in File Explorer

    In this video, Nate Kile will show how to select noncontiguous folders and files efficiently. This method will allow you to select as you need them.

    To select noncontiguous folders and files in File Explorer using keyboard shortcuts, follow these steps:

    1. Open File Explorer:
      • Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
    2. Navigate to the Desired Folder:
      • Use the arrow keys to navigate to the folder containing the files or folders you want to select.
    3. Select the First Item:
      • Use the arrow keys to highlight the first file or folder you want to select.
      • Press Space to select it.
    4. Select Additional Non-Contiguous Items:
      • Hold down the Ctrl key.
      • Use the arrow keys to navigate to the next file or folder you want to select.
      • Press Space to select each additional item while still holding down the Ctrl key.
    5. Complete Your Selection:
      • Release the Ctrl key once you have selected all the desired files or folders.
    Select noncontiguous files and folders
    Select noncontiguous files and folders

    This method allows you to pick and choose individual files or folders that are not next to each other, giving you more flexibility in your selection.

    Our Mission and Purpose will take you where you want and need to go. Let us know how we can help you with noncontiguous folders and files. Contact US: TechVisionTraining@yourtechvision.com

  • Sighted Parents Set Up a Computer with a TechVision Trainer

    When sighted parents’ setup computer for their young child, they learn the commands and how to follow through with lessons after the TechVision Team completes working with their child.

    When sighted parents learn alongside their blind child, especially in the context of setting up and using a computer, it offers numerous benefits:

    1. Enhanced Understanding and Support: Parents gain a deeper understanding of the assistive technologies their child uses, such as screen readers and braille displays. This knowledge enables them to provide better support and guidance during practice and troubleshooting.
    2. Consistency in Learning: By learning the commands and techniques themselves, parents can ensure that the child receives consistent instruction and reinforcement of skills. This continuity is crucial for the child’s confidence and proficiency.
    3. Empowerment and Independence: Parents who are knowledgeable about the technology can empower their child to explore and use the computer independently. This fosters a sense of autonomy and self-reliance in the child.
    4. Improved Communication: Understanding the technology allows parents to communicate more effectively with their child about their learning experiences and challenges. This can strengthen the parent-child relationship and create a more supportive learning environment.
    5. Advocacy and Collaboration: Informed parents are better equipped to advocate for their child’s needs in educational settings and collaborate with teachers and specialists to ensure appropriate accommodations and resources are provided.
    6. Shared Learning Experience: Learning together can be a bonding experience, making the process enjoyable and less isolating for the child. It also demonstrates to the child that their parents are invested in their education and success.

    Here are some general essential keyboard commands to set up and navigate the JAWS screen reader:

    Starting and Basic Navigation

    1. Start JAWS:
      • Press Ctrl + Alt + J or if pinned to taskbar Windows 3 on this computer
    2. Activate PC Cursor:
      • Press Numpad +.
    3. Activate JAWS Cursor:
      • Press Numpad -.
    4. Silence Current Speech Output:
      • Press Ctrl.

    Help Sighted Parents Setup Navigating Web Pages

    1. List Links:
      • Press Insert + F7.
    2. List Headings:
      • Press Insert + F6.
    3. List Form Fields:
      • Press Insert + F5.
    4. Next Heading:
      • Press H.
    5. Next Link:
      • Press Tab.
    6. Previous Link:
      • Press Shift + Tab.

    Reading Text

    1. Read Next Line:
      • Press Down Arrow.
    2. Read Previous Line:
      • Press Up Arrow.
    3. Read Current Line:
      • Press Insert + Up Arrow.
    4. Read Next Word:
      • Press Insert + Right Arrow.
    5. Read Previous Word:
      • Press Insert + Left Arrow.

    Forms and Tables

    1. Enter Forms Mode:
      • Press Enter.
    2. Exit Forms Mode:
      • Press Numpad +.
    3. Navigate Table Cells:
      • Press Ctrl + Alt + Arrow Keys.

    Sighted Parents Setup computer successfully and if your child is Visually Impaired use this setup to SEE computer better

    and all lessons you need on YouTube

  • How to SEE Your Computer Better with Low Vision

    How to SEE Your Computer Better with Low Vision

    The population of individuals with low vision exceeds that of those who are blind. It is expanding quickly as the population ages and experiences vision decline. A variety of lessons teach you how to download large cursors, enhance contrast, and enlarge text in Word. These skills also help you read with more ease. You’ll also learn how to magnify text and graphics on the Internet using different methods. Additionally, instructions on setting up low vision devices for students in classrooms who need to see the board are provided. These lessons are designed to improve your ability to see everything on your computer. The fact that these videos predate screen capture technology is irrelevant, as the skills are applicable to all versions of Windows.

    Skills to Enlarge Text as you need on any computer

     SEE your computer better, for users with low vision, using keyboard commands in Microsoft Word can significantly enhance visibility and ease of use. Here are some useful shortcuts:

    1. Zoom In/Out:
      • Zoom In: Press Alt + W, then Q, and use the Tab key to navigate to the zoom value you want.
      • Zoom Out: Use the same steps as above but adjust the zoom value accordingly.
    2. Adjust Font Size:
      • Increase Font Size: Press Ctrl + ].
      • Decrease Font Size: Press Ctrl + [.
    3. Magnifier:
      • Turn on Magnifier: Press Windows + + (Plus sign).
      • Zoom In: Press Windows + + (Plus sign).
      • Zoom Out: Press Windows + - (Minus sign).
      • Exit Magnifier: Press Windows + Esc.
    4. Change Font:
      • Open Font Dialog Box: Press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box where you can adjust font size, style, and other attributes.
    5. High Contrast Mode:
      • Toggle High Contrast Mode: Press Left Alt + Left Shift + Print Screen.

    Other Low Vision Skills to increase “Seeing” Ability

    This Video demonstrates other skills to decrease blue light and damage to your eyes while using your computer

    These shortcuts can help you SEE your computer better and make text more readable and improve overall accessibility in Word12.

    Add screen readers to get the audio feedback you need as vision decreases

    See the computer better with high contrast
    See your computer better with high contrast

    Other Vision impairment Information


  • Type directly on PDF for Geometry with screen reader

    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)

    1. Zoom In:
      • Press Ctrl + + (Plus sign) on Windows.
      • Press Cmd + + (Plus sign) on Mac.
    2. Zoom Out:
      • Press Ctrl + - (Minus sign) on Windows.
      • Press Cmd + - (Minus sign) on Mac.
    3. Fit to Screen:
      • Press Ctrl + 0 (Zero) on Windows.
      • Press Cmd + 0 (Zero) on Mac.

    Typing on a PDF

    Typing on PDF
    Type Directly on PDF
    1. 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.
    2. Type in a Form Field:
      • Navigate to the form field using the Tab key.
      • Press Enter to start typing.
    3. Add a Comment:
      • Press Ctrl + 6 to open the comment tool on Windows.
      • Press Cmd + 6 on Mac.
    4. Save Changes:
      • Press Ctrl + S to save the document on Windows.
      • Press Cmd + S on Mac.

    More PDF Lessons:

    Math and taking inaccessible to accessible in WORD

    Type directly on a PDF

    Transcribe Math Images from PDF

    Take Large PDFs and Print to PDF for a few pages

    If you have any computer issues, fix it up yourself and get going on work.

    These commands should help you navigate and edit PDFs more efficiently.

    Video on How to SEE your computer better with Low vision is also very helpful.

  • Set up Outlook Alarm with Screen Reader

    Set up Outlook alarm with screen reader

    Set up Outlook Alarm
    Scheduling an Outlook Alarm

    To set up an alarm in Outlook with JAWS, press Ctrl + 2 to switch to Calendar view. Next, press Ctrl + N to create a new appointment. JAWS announces each field as you navigate through the form. Enter the subject, then press Tab to move to the location field. Continue pressing Tab to set the start and end times. To adjust the date, use Alt + Down Arrow to access the date picker.

    Press Alt + H to open the appointment tab, then A to set the reminder. Use arrow keys to select the desired reminder time, then press Enter to confirm. Finally, press Ctrl + S to save the appointment. At the scheduled time, JAWS will announce your reminder.

    If you discover your computer is not working well, check your Setups on windows and if you are low vision, here are setup options also for better viewing.

    More Outlook Lessons