Screen Reader Guidelines

Students who need screen reader technology can use JAWS^®. Refer to System Requirements for supported versions of JAWS. Other programs may be compatible, but only JAWS has been successfully evaluated for use with MAP Growth testing.

Setup for JAWS screen reader

On the student desktop computer:

1. For the student browser, use Firefox^®.

   The NWEA secure browser does not support JAWS.

2. Provide headphones to avoid distracting other students.

3. In the MAP testing session, assign a test labeled Screen Reader Compatible, such as "Growth: Math 6+ NWEA 2017 (Screen Reader Compatible)."

   These tests work like other MAP Growth assessments, but they ensure all questions have alternative text descriptions for pictures.

   Note: Currently there isn't an accessible test for early learners (grades K–2).

Braille setup

Students may use a refreshable braille display that is compatible with JAWS. However, support for math and science in braille is still in development. If students use a refreshable braille display, please note that there may be some inconsistencies in the areas of math and science.

Using screen readers

In general, students use the standard key commands for their assistive technology tools. For example, the down arrow in JAWS will read the next line of text on the page. For the log-in pages, students should use Tab to navigate the different edit fields. We recommend using the script in the Student Instructions for Screen Reader Users section under General MAP Testing to explain test navigation and other tips to students who will be using screen readers.

Related topics...

Visual Aids—Additional Setup

Accommodations and Accessibility