“Access for All” ADA Visit: My Screen Reader Assistive Technology Demonstration

I was excited to learn that WeCo was going to host another group of “Access for All” project visitors on behalf of the United States Department of State and Minnesota International Center on July 29, 2015. Once again, I was asked to demonstrate the assistive technology that I use during the groups visit.

During the break of the presentation, the visitors were invited to come and view the assistive technologythat I use. I began by demonstrating how I use my Job Access With Speech (JAWS) screen readeron my laptop to navigate websites. I explained how I go about finding links and information. I then showed them an “accessible” website that had properly marked headings and links, as well as a not so “accessible” website that had improperly marked links, such as a graphic link that contained various series of letters and numbers within its alt text tag. I explained to them how this wasn’t properly marked, as the series of letters and numbers didn’t convey to me what is conveyed to a visual user.

Throughout my demonstration, I answered various questions such as “How do you copy and paste content?” I answered this particular question by showing the visitors how I complete this task using Microsoft Word. I explained while simultaneously pressing various keyboard keys, how I use different keyboard commands to open a document, copy the content, open another document, and paste the content within this document.

I ended my presentation by showing the visitors my BrailleNotedevice with its refreshable brailledisplay. I showed them the major features of the assistive device, such as the daily planner and word processor. I then demonstrated the BrailleNote’s refreshable Braille display by accessing the time feature. To me, this is the best way to present the display as the time’s seconds makes the Braille refresh/change every second.

The visitors seemed to enjoy the presentation as well as the demonstration of my assistive technology devices. They asked questions, made conversation, laughed, and expressed their gratitude to me. I enjoyed my time with this visitor’s group, and welcome the opportunity for WeCo to host future events like this.

Read WeCo Hosts “Access for All” ADA Visit Creating Accessibility Cultural Exchange for more about the project visitors.