JAWS
JAWS is a screen reader for Microsft Windows offered by Freedom Scientific, Inc. JAWS will assist users who are blind or low-vision to use a Windows computer. JAWS has a variety of features, including Braille support, multi-lingual speech synthesis, and multi-screen support.
JAWS has a variety of features to help students with vision impairment:
Control & Navigation
- JAWS allows control of major Windows functions through keyboard shortcuts and spoken feedback.
- Consistent shortcuts across programs, but the complexity of modern software requires users to memorize specific keystrokes.
Customization
- Virtually every aspect of JAWS is customizable, including keystrokes, reading speed, punctuation granularity, and hints.
- Features a scripting language for task automation and complex program behavior modifications.
Web Browsing Mode
- JAWS has a dedicated mode for web browsers with specific functionalities.
- Declares webpage title and number of links; navigation using arrow and tab keys.
- Specific letter keys navigate to elements (e.g., text boxes) on web pages.
Document Access
- JAWS can access headings in Word and PDF documents using similar navigation methods.
Complexity and Training
- The feature set and configurability of JAWS are described as complex.
- Training is recommended, especially for users like web designers conducting accessibility testing, to ensure accurate conclusions.