By: Carmen Willings teachingvisuallyimpaired.com Updated May 27, 2024
Computer modifications can significantly enhance accessibility for students with low vision, but these modifications may vary depending on individual needs. Here are some common computer modifications that can be implemented:
Accessibility Options: Access the "Accessibility Options" in the Control Panel to make simple modifications to the computer display. This includes enlarging the pointer, slowing down the blink rate, enlarging the cursor, and increasing the size of icons. Additionally, adjustments can be made to reduce visual glare by tilting the computer monitor or using a glare-reducing shield.
Screen Magnification Programs: For students who require additional magnification beyond what is available through basic accessibility options, screen magnification programs can be beneficial. These programs enlarge the content displayed on the screen, making it easier for students with low vision to read text, view images, and navigate applications.
Screen Reader Programs: Some students with visual impairments may require screen reader programs to access information on the computer. Screen reader software converts on-screen text into speech or Braille output, allowing users to navigate and interact with digital content audibly or tactilely. This is particularly helpful for students who are blind or have difficulty reading text on the screen.
Combination Programs: There are also software programs available that combine screen magnification and screen reading features. These programs offer comprehensive accessibility solutions for students with varying levels of visual impairment, allowing them to customize their computer experience based on their individual needs.
It's essential to assess each student's specific needs and preferences when determining the most appropriate computer modifications and software solutions. By providing tailored accommodations and assistive technology tools, educators can empower students with low vision to access digital information effectively and participate fully in educational activities.
Computer Screen Magnifiers
A screen magnifiers can be purchased to fit on your current monitor. They can magnify up to 1.5X the original source. This is OK for students who only need minimal screen enlargement. Be cautious as some overlays can create a warped look to the edges of the computer screen. For students who need more magnification, screen enlargement software would be a more appropriate choice.
Screen Enlargement & Screen Reading Software
Screen enlargement software and screen reading software are crucial tools for students with visual impairments, enabling them to access digital content effectively. Here's an overview of these software types:
Screen Enlargement Software: This type of software magnifies the content displayed on the computer screen, making it larger and easier to read for individuals with low vision. Users can adjust the level of magnification based on their preferences and needs. Screen enlargement software is particularly beneficial for students with partial sight who may struggle to read small text or discern details on the screen.
Screen Reading Software: Screen reading software goes beyond magnification by converting on-screen text into synthesized speech or Braille output. This allows users, including those who are blind or have severe visual impairments, to access and interact with digital content audibly or tactilely. Screen reading software typically provides comprehensive support for navigating applications, browsing the web, and accessing documents, enabling users to independently use computers and perform various tasks.
For students who are blind or have significant visual impairments, screen reading software like JAWS (Job Access With Speech) is an essential tool for accessing and navigating computer applications, documents, and the internet. JAWS reads aloud the content displayed on the screen, including text, menus, and controls, providing auditory feedback and facilitating interaction with the computer interface.
Schools should ensure that students with visual impairments have access to appropriate screen enlargement and screen reading software, as these tools play a crucial role in promoting digital accessibility and facilitating academic success for students with visual disabilities. Additionally, educators and support staff should provide training and ongoing support to students in using these software tools effectively to maximize their benefits.
CDesk by AdaptiveVoice is a stand-alone, all-inclusive software program designed for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. CDesk is a single program with fourteen core applications, built from the ground up to be extremely intuitive, simple to use, and easy to learn by utilizing a consistent user interface. "Peggy" is the speech recognition system that allows a totally hands free user experience. Visit the AdaptiveVoice website for more information.
JAWS® is a screen reader, developed for computer users whose vision loss prevents them from seeing screen content. JAWS reads aloud what's on the PC screen and gives the user a unique set of intelligent tools for navigating and accesses Web pages and all screen content.
NVDAsoftware enables people who are blind and vision impaired to use a computer by communicating what is on the screen using a synthetic voice or braille. It is totally FREE, yet fully functional and portable. You can download it to your PC, or to portable media such as a USB stick.
Serotek believes accessibility is a universal right, and with that mindset, they work to ensure their products help you get the most of any computer. They advertise that their solutions are affordable, convenient and easy-to-use.
TalkButton is new text-to-speech assistive technology now available for a free trial download. Developed especially for use in Microsoft Word documents on Mac computers, TalkButton allows you to read, work and create right in Word, while you listen. Its unique automatic scrolling feature lets you read along easily, highlighting spoken text word-by-word, or line-by-line. TalkButton also reads text from email, web browsers and programs like Pages, Preview, pdfs and Text Edit. It's very user-friendly, fast and responsive, quickly customized with one-click changes and shortcut keys. TalkButton uses high quality voices in multiple languages.
Thunder is award-winning screenreader talking software designed for people with little or no sight. According to their website, it works well with Windows 7, Vista or XP. It is available all over the world in several languages and it is FREE.
Virtual Magnifying Glass is a FREE, open source, cross-platform screen magnification tool. It is simple, customizable, and easy-to-use.
WebAnywhere is a FREE web-based screen reader for the web. It requires no special software to be installed and enables people who are blind to access the web from any computer that has a sound card.
Window-Eyes screen reader by GW Micro is now FREE for download for people who are blind, visually impaired, or print disabled who have a licensed version of Office 2010 or later!
Word Talk is a FREE Windows text-to-speech plugin for Microsoft Word. It will speak the text of the document and will highlight it as it goes.
VI Assistive Technology
Basic Use
Properly cares for AT tools
Stores and retrieves device when needed
Use appropriate tool for the task
Reports how to acquire, repair, maintain tool
Problem solve
Check cable connections
Reboot
Call tech support
Recharge device
Know when to ask adult for help
Change batteries (if applicable)
Braille Notetaker
Turn device on/off
Orient to braille keypad/QWERTY
Locate keys (previous, back, forward, next, etc.)
Locate braille display
Locate ports: serial, parallel, and power
Connect device to printer, embosser, power
Use navigational commands
Use reading commands
Use general commands
iOS/Tablet
Use of accessibility features
Access digital print
Downloading e-books
Communicating with device
Pairing with braille notetaker
Audio
Adjust speed
Adjust volume
Go to specific page
Move throughout the document
Set heading level navigation
Place a bookmark
Move between bookmarks
Video Magnifier
Bring various size print “in focus”
Change image size for various tasks
Move x-y tray horizontally to scan row
Move x-y tray vertically to scan rows
Locate requested items on a page.
Self-initiate preferred features
Use line markers to maintain place
Draw lines to connect pictures in 2 columns
Use video magnifier to complete reading tasks
Use video magnifier to complete writing tasks
Basic Computer Use
Basic computer use (ie shutting down, etc.)
Touch type all letters
Use shift key for capitalization
Touch type numbers and symbols
Type with increased accuracy
Type with increased speed
Use of standard printer
Use of braille embosser + translation software
Use of scanner
Access
Built in Accessibility Features
Use Screen Magnification Program
Navigate the windows to locate desired information
Use Screen Reader Program
Activate/deactivate and minimize program
Windows Keystrokes
Move between start button, desktop, taskbar (F6 or tab)
Open start menu (Windows key or CTRL+ESC)
Use start menu/desktop icon to open programs
Display contents of drop-down list (Alt + â)
Select choice on an icon or drop down list (enter)