[bcab] Re: software for students

Hi Alan,

 

Give that the subject is Theology, may I suggest that there
are other considerations here?

 

Vista and today's popular screen readers should work
together, so a decision could be made on the basis of
whatever exposure the student has had already.  If she has
used one, and hasn't hit any brick walls with it, even if
only using XP, stick with it as a first choice.

 

However, let's look at the subject matter.  Is she likely to
be faced with any Latin or Greek text for example?  Or
indeed any foreign language material?  If so, might it be
necessary to consider if the chosen screen reader can handle
these languages.  I do know that there are voices available
for Modern Greek, but I'm not sure about ancient Greek or
even Latin.

 

On the other hand, if she is a braille user, she may also be
wise to look at what braille translation software is
available.  (I do know Ancient Greek is under development
with at least one braille software company while Latin and
Modern Greek are already available)

 

Will she perhaps require to use CD based theological
material?  Is that accessible, and in what format?  Bear in
mind that many use PDF, and while it may visually appear as
text, it may simply be a photocopy of text produced in PDF
format.

 

Just some thoughts from past experience of dealing with
theological students.

 

George Bell.

 

From: bcab-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
[mailto:bcab-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of alan rayner
Sent: 23 August 2008 23:09
To: bcab@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [bcab] software for students

 

Hello folks

A friend is going on a theological studies course, and does
not know which speech software works best with vista and
word for students and home.  She will be able to ask for the
latest version of either jaws or hal, but is not an
experienced user.  I have not used vista myself, and so
cannot comment on the relative merits of various screen
readers with it.  I know that some have preferences for one
over the other, but I am looking for a balanced view.
Perhaps someone who has used several screen readers with
vista can help with some feedback.  I do not want a full
assessment, but just want to find out which works overall
easier and/or if there are particular problems with any of
them.  Thanking you in anticipation.

 

cheers

Alan Michael Rayner

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