[blindLaw] Wondering
Seif-Eldeen Saqallah
seifs at umich.edu
Sun Oct 8 02:26:25 UTC 2023
I also use JAWS. For pdf and other non-microsoft documents, I find
that abbyy, an ocr software (purchased), is helpful for converting
into accessible formats, particularly when the file contains scans
only.
Older-fassioned, I also convert files to txt and insert letters/words
that I can find later.
I used a braillenote in law school but find converting between kwb and
other formats now tiresome; I still might use it to read braiile,
especially for other languages.
I often find that procuring books in pdf is easier than finding and
listening to them on the victor stream, especially when needing to
extract or note something.
I personally preferred using a braillenote for taking notes, as it
kept my notes separate (file and device, so I could use the computer
to follow along in the book), though one can do that with a computer
too (even different windows/tabs on the same computer).
If really needed, an accommodation could be that a classmate also
takes notes for you, which helps if things are missed.
When reading documents, I really rely on the find command (control f)
and search for a relevant word/phrase. (When in editable files, I also
might insert a phrase [aaaa] for sections/things I wished to revisit.)
Realistically, there are times when the reading is too much, at which
prioritizing and skimming are key. I also copied and pasted
quotes/portions into a separate notes-type document.
At some point, one might need use a sighted helper for evidence or formatting.
Preparing for the future, make sure your school explicitly notes your
accommodations, as you will need this for the bar exam.
Happy to exchange numbers and phonechat.
Sincerely,
Seif
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