[BlindMath] Newly blind student learning to code using VScode

[Jonathan Godfrey]

I do agree with Vince's opinion here.

Coding is perhaps the worst activity I can think of as an environment to learn how to use a screen reader. Even people who have used screen readers for years find the added complexity of unforgiving code syntax to be a draining exercise compared to the skills needed to write/answer email or create an MS Word document. This is further compounded by the environment in which the blind user thinks they must operate.

I do think it is possible to learn better screen reader usage skills while doing programming. I'm pretty sure my screen reader skills were found wanting at times. Ditto for my braille reading skills.

I have though, found far too many blind people blaming the programming language and environment for its inaccessibility when in fact it is the user who needs to lift their screen reader game.

At that point, I would ask if the access of the environment and learning about the way people using an IDE think should be separated from the actual programming itself.

I suggest learning some programming basics in a simpler text editor environment. Walking is safer than attempting to sprint, especially if you are blind.

Jonathan





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-----Original Message-----
From: BlindMath <blindmath-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Vincent Martin via BlindMath
Sent: Tuesday, August 6, 2024 1:05 PM
To: 'Blind Math list for those interested in mathematics' <blindmath at nfbnet.org>
Cc: vincentfmartin2020 at gmail.com
Subject: Re: [BlindMath] Newly blind student learning to code using VScode

I don't know of a manual for coding, per se, but the student should be as proficient as possible with any screen reader before truly trying to code.

-----Original Message-----
From: BlindMath <blindmath-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Carpenter, Anne via BlindMath
Sent: Monday, August 5, 2024 7:13 PM
To: blindmath at nfbnet.org
Cc: Carpenter, Anne <carpenta at evergreen.edu>
Subject: [BlindMath] Newly blind student learning to code using VScode

Hi,
We have a newly blind student using jaws to learn Python with VScode.
Is there a beginner's book or manual for them to learn how use JAWS to code?
Right now, they are frustrated and confused.
They are not very proficient with JAWS.
We would like to help them get started before classes begin.
Thank you,
Anne Carpenter
Coordinator, Assistive Technology Services The Evergreen State College Library 2312
2700 Evergreen Parkway SE
Olympia, WA 98505
(360) 867-6090
carpenta at evergreen.edu<mailto:carpenta at evergreen.edu>
Disability is Diversity
Accessibility is Equity & Inclusion!

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