Screen Reader
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The Multiple Choice (Radio Button) interaction for Screen Reader users has been updated.
The interaction has been updated to a more common design that aligns to the standard interaction used by screen reader users. Now, when students navigate into a multiple choice field, the radio button given focus by the Screen Reader will automatically be selected. Students can use the space bar to remove the selection.
Students who use a screen reader should practice with the updated multiple choice interactions prior to the operational assessment this spring to become familiar with the updated interaction.
- Compatibility
A screen reader is a software application, separate from text-to-speech embedded in TestNav, which conveys web content through audio. Screen readers are appropriate for students who are trained to use the software and who use it in the classroom, including those who are blind or have a visual impairment.
Pearson’s test platform is being programmed to comply with the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, Level AA. We are also utilizing the W3C’s Accessible Rich Internet Application (ARIA) recommendation to improve the interaction between assistive technology and assessment content.
For optimal compatibility with our testing platform, browsers and assistive technology products should comply with the User Agent Accessibility Guidelines (UAAG) and support the ARIA recommendation.
Because the JAWS screen reader is broadly used, Pearson is going above and beyond the WCAG 2.0 AA requirements to optimize the user experience for JAWS 15 with the Firefox browser and Windows 7.
Large Print
To print Large Print Paper Practice Tests to the optimal enlargement of 150% to 18 point font, they must be printed on 14" x 18" paper. Do not use print scaling or fit-to-page in your printer settings.
Large Print Paper Practice Tests can also be printed on 11" x 17" paper with a print size of less than 150% of the standard print. For this, print scaling or fit-to-page must be set in your printer settings.
Tactile Graphics
Tactile graphics are images that use raised surfaces so that a person who is blind or visually impaired can feel them. They are used to convey non-textual information such as maps, paintings, graphs, and diagrams.
Tactile graphics are required for students using Screen Reader or downloadable .BRF versions for the Grade 8 ELA and all Mathematics tests because the non-textual information cannot be displayed electronically or printed/embossed via a downloadable .BRF file.
If you have a student who is blind or has a visual impairment and who requires tactile graphics to take the practice tests, please contact the Practice Test Tactile Graphics Point of Contact for your state.