How to Use ChatGPT with JAWS Screen Reader

Relevant to: faculty, staff, and students

This article contains information considered accurate at the time of publishing. Technology updates, changes in University security practices, policies and procedures may effect the information in this article - updates to articles are scheduled on a periodic basis and will address any required changes.

ChatGPT and JAWS Screen Reader

ChatGPT is a versatile AI-powered tool for answering questions, brainstorming ideas, or assisting with academic tasks. If you use the JAWS screen reader, you can effectively navigate and interact with ChatGPT by following these guidelines. 

Getting Started 

Before accessing ChatGPT, ensure your setup is ready: 

  1. Check Your Browser: Use a screen reader-friendly browser like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. These are recommended for compatibility with JAWS and modern web applications. 

  1. Update JAWS: Ensure you have the latest version of JAWS installed for optimal performance with web-based applications. 

  1. Confirm Accessibility Settings: Enable "Forms Mode" or use Quick Navigation settings when interacting with text fields. 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Logging Into ChatGPT 

  1. Open your browser and navigate to your university’s ChatGPT portal or the official OpenAI ChatGPT page. 

  1. Use the Tab key to navigate through the login page. 

  1. When focus lands on a button or text field, JAWS will announce its purpose. For instance, "Email Address, edit box" or "Submit button." 

  1. Enter your login details and press Enter to proceed. 

Navigating the Chat Interface 

Once logged in, the ChatGPT interface typically consists of the following sections: 

  • Input Field: Where you type your questions or prompts. 

  • Response Area: Where ChatGPT displays its answers. 

Accessing the Input Field 

  1. Use Tab or Quick Navigation Keys (E for edit fields) to locate the text input area. 

  1. JAWS should announce "Type your message here, edit box." 

  1. Press Enter to activate Forms Mode, allowing you to type your question. 

  1. Type your prompt and press Enter to submit. 

Reading ChatGPT Responses 

  1. After submitting a prompt, use Arrow Keys to navigate to the response area. 

  1. JAWS may announce "Response region" or similar. 

  1. Use the Down Arrow key to read the response line by line. 

  1. If the response updates dynamically, JAWS will notify you of changes. 

Navigating Between Prompts and Responses 

To review previous prompts or responses: 

  1. Use H to jump to headings, as each message may be formatted with a heading tag. 

  1. Use Tab to cycle through focusable elements, such as buttons or links. 

Accessibility Tips 

  1. Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with common JAWS navigation shortcuts: 

  1. Insert + F7: Open the list of links for quick navigation. 

  1. Insert + F5: Open the list of form fields to locate the input box quickly. 

  1. Live Region Updates: ChatGPT's dynamic responses may use ARIA live regions. JAWS will automatically read these aloud, but if it does not, use the Insert + Escape command to refresh the page content. 

  1. Text-to-Speech Speed: Adjust the speaking rate to suit the length and complexity of ChatGPT responses. Use Ctrl + Alt + Page Up/Page Down to modify speed. 

Troubleshooting

  1. JAWS Not Recognizing Dynamic Updates: If JAWS does not announce ChatGPT’s responses, refresh the virtual buffer using Insert + Escape. 

  1. Input Field Not Accessible: If you can't locate the input field, try refreshing the page or switching to a different browser. 

  1. Unexpected Behavior: If the interface is difficult to navigate, contact your university’s accessibility support team for assistance. 

Additional Support 

 

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