Accessibility Tools

Browsers

Settings can be customized based on preference.  

Keyboard Shortcuts

Ctrl + Shift + U  =  Reads Page Aloud

Ctrl + +  or -  =   Zoom in / Zoom out

Ctrl + F = Find on page

Ctrl + T = New Tab



Extensions can be added to student browsers as long as the technology department has approved them for student use.  To see a current list of approved extensions, go to the Tech Approval Purchase Request page in Classlink.

Google Translate is an extension that can be used in both Chrome and Edge. 

Read Aloud will read content aloud on most web pages and  pdfs.  It works in Chrome and Edge.

Screen Shader allows users to select custom colors for all web pages to help with eye strain and dyslexia.

Dyslexia Friendly changes the font on web pages to a one with a heavy bottom to better anchor text.

Microsoft 365

Immersive Reader

Immersive Reader is available in many apps like Nearpod, Flip, and Edge. It is also available in Word, Forms, OneNote, and PowerPoint. 

Dictation

Most Microsoft 365 apps have dictation as an option found in the Insert ribbon menu.  Students can speak instead of type.  This function works best when headphones with a mic are used when in a typical classroom setting which helps reduce ambient noise.

Captions/Translation

PowerPoint (in Microsoft 365). Subtitles can be turned on when presenting in PowerPoint to support hearing impaired.  There is also a live presentation option that allows the audience to join the presentation from their own device and have the subtitles in their native language. (Note translation is not always 100% accurate.)



Teachers can support students by creating materials that meet industry standards for accessibility by using the Check Accessibility tool found in Microsoft products like Word and PowerPoint.  This icon is typically found in the Review menu.  It analyzes the content of the file or slide and opens a pane to the right that provides feedback to address any potential access issues.  With a few adjustments, teachers can ensure that all of the files they prepare to use with students are accessible.

Check Accessibility

Windows 11

Accessibility Settings in Windows 11

Vision Support

Audio Support

Interaction Support

OneNote

Sometimes text can't be read aloud because of how it was added to the web.  Screenshots of text are not recognized as text but as pictures instead. Traditional tools will not read text that is part of an image.  OneNote recently added a feature that allows users to take a screenshot of text and paste it into a page in a OneNote notebook.  (all CMCSS computers have OneNote installed) Right click on the pasted image and select the option "Make Text Searchable."

Updated: 05/1/24 JC