The resources below are not specific to any one Windows based screen reader. They contain resources and information that can be used with JAWS, NVDA, Narrator, or other screen reading technology.
Perkins Paths to Technology: Prepare a Low Vision Student to Use a Screen Reader
Though this resource does not contain information about using screen readers, it has some helpful suggestions for those needing to transition from using screen magnification software to screen reading software.
WCBVI: Screen Reader Savvy 2024 Refresh - YouTube Playlist This playlist contains eight videos addressing the basics of using a Windows based screen reader. Topics include but are not limited to the differences between NVDA and JAWS screen readers, adjusting screen reader settings, basic Windows commands, word processing, and simple internet navigation. Each video in the playlist has a downloadable copy of the presentation handout.
Carroll Center for the Blind: Download the Windows Screen Reader Primmer Fourth Edition
This digital download is comprised of three folders and one Word document. The first folder contains all chapters of the publication in ePUB format, the second folder contains those same chapters in Word format, and the final folder contains practice documents. The Word document contains all chapters of the publication in one file, which is almost 600 pages long. Note that you MUST complete a form to download the zipped folder.
Paths to Literacy: Chromebook Basics for Students with Visual Impairments
WSB: Chromebook Accessibility Manual
This .docx download from the Washington School for the Blind is a comprehensive guide to the many accessibility options, both for the blind and visually impaired as well as other accessibility features.
Important: The following are links to downloadable .docx files. The download will start after the link is activated and proceed according to your browser's default settings.
The vast majority of the information in these resources applies to both JAWS and Fusion, however a section specific to Fusion is also included here.
For resources related to using Fusion as screen magnification, there is further information on the Zoomtext area of our resources site.
Getting Started with JAWS
Downloadable MP3, HTML, and DAISY files on the most commonly used JAWS features.
Freedom Scientific Main Training Site
Includes links to podcasts, tutorials, etc.
JAWS Training Page
Contains downloadable resource documentation
JAWS Training and Resources for Teachers
Links to training modules and other helpful teaching resources
JAWS Teaching/Training Modules
A series for teachers and assistive technology instructors, which serves as a guide to use when teaching JAWS.
Surf’s Up: Surfing the Internet with JAWS Lessons
A walkthrough of lessons and guidance on how to surf the web using JAWS.
What's New in JAWS
This page updates according to the latest JAWS release. Information on previous releases is also available.
How to Choose the Right JAWS, Fusion, or ZoomText Software Edition and License
Dsurf Blog
Contains short JAWS lessons/tutorials on settings in Windows 11, JAWS Preferences, and other topics. There is a lot of free content, but also resources available for purchase.
Perkins Paths to Technology: FS Companion An AI Tools for JAWS
This Perkins Paths to Technology post explains FS Companion and provides sample questions
APH Blog: JAWS Tips for Teachers
This APH blog post points out six great, and often underutilized, strategies when using JAWS.
JAWS for Windows Support List
This group aims to be a source for anything and everything related to JAWS. Topics range from discussion of new and upcoming features, to compatibility with certain programs, etc.
Perkins Paths to Technology: Tips on Getting Started with JAWS
Note: Both of these playlists contain videos specific to Narrator as well as other content related to Windows accessibility.
Accessibility Central: NVDA with Windows 10 Basics (Note that you’ll Need to Scroll Down)
AFB Tutorials: Learning NVDA (Links to all Lessons are in the Right Sidebar)
Hadley: NVDA Workshop Series (Includes Links to Four Videos)
These resources cover the basics of VoiceOver on the Mac. It is not necessary to be utilizing the most recent version of Mac OS and many of these resources were written based on older versions. Unless otherwise stated, these resources can be used across OS versions.
Apple's Accesibility Features for Vision
Resources related to accessibility features for both nonvisual and low vision access.
VoiceOver for Mac User Guide
To explore the VoiceOver User Guide, click Table of Contents at the top of the page, or enter a word or phrase in the search field. Each section of the guide has a combo box at the top of the page to select the appropriate MacOS version, a search field, and expandable table of contents to quickly navigate the resource.
Perkins Paths to Technology: Getting Started on a Mac with VoiceOver: Teaching Students
Perkins Paths to Technology: Getting Started with VoiceOver on the Mac: Menu Bar, Desktop, and Dock
Perkins Paths to Technology: Introducing VoiceOver on the Mac for Teachers
Perkins Paths to Technology: Learning VoiceOver Basics on a Mac
AppleVis keeps a repository of past podcasts that are categorized and easily searched. For audio support and walk-throughs, this is an excellent starting point.