Using Windows 10 'Accessibility' tools to support learners with visual difficulties

The latest update to Microsoft Windows 10 (version 1903 and above) includes new accessibility improvements and enhancements that make your device easier to see or use without a screen.

Accessibility settings are all available in one place - Ease of Access: Windows Start Menu > Settings (cog icon) > Ease of Access (or type ‘Ease of Access' in the Windows Search box).

Pointer & cursor

Change the size and colour of the mouse pointer and cursor.

Make text bigger

Increase text size from 100% to 225% - applies to all Windows items such as folders, toolbars, menus and icons.

Make everything bigger

The Windows Desktop and applications can be increased incrementally from 100% to 175%.

Magnifer

Windows Magnifier makes part or all of your screen bigger so you can see words and images better. With Magnifier you can:

• Smooth edges of images and text. Invert colours.
• Follow the Mouse cursor.
• Follow the Keyboard focus.
• Use keyboard shortcuts to control Zoom, View and automatically turn it on when Windows starts.

Narrator

Narrator is comparable to a fully fledge screen reader. Narrator reads on all Windows applications such as Microsoft Office, web browsers, and you can also use it to read aloud text as you type.

To make the most of Narrator use the new tutorials:

• Quick Start - Learn the basics of Narrator.
• Narrator Guide - View the complete guide online.
• What's new - New and updated features.
• Settings - Customise Narrator.