Students with Low Vision may also utilize a CCTV, which is a camera mounted device that enlarges a book or other item under the camera onto a screen. This device can then adjust the zoom, color contrast, and colors of the page for the student. There are portable options, which uses a video camera embedded in the device to enlarge the items. 

Another software students might use is called ZoomText. ZoomText is a screen magnifier that enlarges everything on the screen and then smooths out the text and images so they are still identifiable (and not pixelated). ZoomText also allows for the student to adjust the screen colors (or students with contrast impairments, issues with managing bright lights, etc), and have the screen read aloud as they navigate through the screen.

Students who are blind or visually impaired, in almost all cases, will use a specialized software known as a screen reader to access your content from their computer or mobile device. The most common screen readers include JAWS, VoiceOver, and NVDA.

Intro to Screen Readers Part 1:

Intro to Screen Readers Part 2

Best Practice Tips for Accessible PowerPoint Presentations

1. Keep the formatting simple by using existing slide layouts and accessible themes.
2. Every slide should include a title.
3. Use high contrast colors and 18 pt font (or larger). 
4. Ensure that the slides have a proper reading order. 
5. Add alternative text to images.

The rules of etiquette and good manners when communicating or interacting with people with disabilities are generally the same as the rules for good etiquette in society. These guidelines address specific issues which frequently arise for people with disabilities in terms of those issues related to disability and outline basic etiquette for working with people with different kinds of disabilities.

Remember

• Not all disabilities are visible, such as heart disease, learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, or asthma.
• Many people have temporary disabilities which are equally as limiting as permanent disabilities.
• Not everyone with a disability wishes to discuss their disability or its limitations.
• Wait until you know an individual before asking personal questions.

Identity First - People First Language and Disability Etiquette Resources

Welcome to our online training. These series of videos have been designed specifically for those teaching students with disabilities. It is broken down into three sections which will cover:

Accessibility Basics

1 in 5 individuals reports having a disability. The majority of these students have invisible disabilities, such as ADHD, a Specific Learning Disability or heart disease.

In this section, you will learn: