The Broadbent Institute is committed to ensuring that our website is accessible for all users, regardless of any disability they may have or the technology they use.
Tips for Browsing our Website
Almost every modern browser and operating system offers built-in features with assistive technologies. Below are some basic tips to address the most common accessible challenges.
For a comprehensive list of tips on browsing on desktop and mobile devices, visit W3C Web Accessibility Initiative – Introduction to Web Accessibility.
For Apple iOS mobile devices, please visit the iPhone User Guide Accessibility Section for a comprehensive list of tips for helping make our website accessible.
For Google Android mobile devices, please visit Android Accessibility Help for a comprehensive list of tips for helping make our website accessible
Screen Readers for Desktops
The use of screen readers assists individuals who are blind or have visual impairment. You can refer to the CNIB Foundation’s recommendations for screen readers best suited for your device:
JAWS for Windows: JAWS for Windows is a popular screen reader produced by VFO Group (formerly Freedom Scientific). Available since the early 1990s, it has a large user base. Tech support is provided Monday through Friday. More info on JAWS can be found on the Freedom Scientific website.
Dolphin ScreenReader is a fast, reliable screen reading software that provides full auditory support to every function of a Windows desktop, laptop or tablet and integrates with hundreds of windows applications. More information can be found on the Dolphin Website.
Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA): NVDA is a free and open-source screen reader for Windows. It is updated on a regular basis and has a large user base around the world. Since the software is free, tech support options are limited and are mainly provided through online forums. More info about NVDA can be found on the NV Access website.
Microsoft Narrator: Microsoft Narrator is a screen reader built in since Windows XP. With Windows 10, Narrator has gained new capabilities, putting it on par with screen readers like JAWS and NVDA. For more info about Narrator, please visit the Microsoft website.
Apple Voiceover: Apple Voiceover is a screen reader built into Macintosh computers since MacOS 10.4. For more info about Voiceover, visit the Apple website.
Magnify Web Pages on Desktop
Many web browsers allow you to zoom in on web pages using simple keyboard controls. The magnifier allows you to focus on specific parts of the screen, enlarging the text and other page elements.
For Windows operating systems: press Ctrl and the + (plus) key to zoom in (Ctrl and the – (minus) key to zoom out).
For Mac operating systems: press Cmd and the + (plus) key to zoom in (Cmd and the – (minus) key to zoom out).
Customize the Mouse Pointer for Desktop
Windows: You can customize your mouse in a variety of ways in Windows. For instance, you can swap the functions of your mouse buttons, make the mouse pointer more visible, and alter the scroll speed of the mouse wheel.
Learn more about customizing your mouse pointer for Windows.
MacOS: If you have difficulty seeing or following the pointer, you can change its size and color so it’s easier to locate on the screen.
Learn more about customizing your mouse pointer for MacOS.