Screen Readers
Screen readers听are a form of assistive technology (AT) software that听enables access听to a computer, and all the things a computer does, by attempting to identify and interpret what is being displayed on the computer screen using听text-to-speech. Screen readers can only access and process听live text听(fully editable or selectable text).
Normally used by someone who is visually impaired.
Who uses Assistive Technology?
Someone who is听visually impaired,听has a听mobility limitation听or has a听learning disability
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Benefits of using a screen reader
- provides access听to someone who does not have useful vision, mobility or has a learning disability to access text on the screen
- offers same level of听independence听and privacy as anyone else
- provides access听to someone who does not have useful vision, mobility or has a learning disability to access text on the screen
- offers same level of听independence听and privacy as anyone else
| Screen Readers Icon | Device | Screen Readers Description |
|---|---|---|
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Windows |
Screen reader program for Microsoft Windows that allows blind and visually impaired users to read the screen either with a text-to-speech output or by a refreshable Braille display. The听听can be downloaded free of charge by anyone. |
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Windows |
Screen reader program for Microsoft Windows that allows blind and visually impaired users to read the screen either with a text-to-speech output or by a refreshable Braille display. |
 |
Mac |
Provides auditory descriptions of each onscreen element using gestures, a keyboard, or a braille display. |
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Android |
Adds spoken, audible, and vibration feedback to your device. |
 |
Windows | Screen magnifier for Microsoft Windows that allows you to see and hear everything on the computer. |
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- Screen readers read line-by-line from left-to-right and top-to-bottom.
- Screen readers start at the top of a document or website and read any text including alternative text for images, graphics or charts).
- Screen readers navigate a document or website using the keyboard听without听a mouse.听Tab听key: jump from link to link,听Enter: select a link,听arrow听keys: navigate a document or website.
- Reading order is important for users with visual challenges.听The users can become confused if the document (content, tables, images or charts) is poorly organized or out of order.
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Training听Videos
- Use your CSUN username and password to watch听听in the Panopto.
- Watch other UDC Training Videos
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