Module 3: Screen Technologies
Screen Readers
Most blind computer users employ screen reader software which reads aloud the text on the screen. JAWS Links to an external site. is the most well known Windows screen reader, but at around $1500, it may be prohibitively expensive for some users, especially those in developing countries.
A popular alternative--also available only for Windows--is NVDA Links to an external site., a free open-source screen reader software.
Screen readers now come built in to Windows (Narrator) and MacOS (VoiceOver).
In this video, blind user Jason Holt demonstrates how he uses screen reader software. Notice how he is able to maintain comprehension while greatly increasing the speed with which content is read.
Screen Enlargement
Many legally blind and low-vision users enlarge portions of the screen to make them easier to see. Both Windows (magnifier) Links to an external site. and Apple OS (zoom) Links to an external site. have built-in accessibility tools that will enlarge the user's screen and allow them to move the area of focus.