Google Docs editor embeds a number of important accessibility features that you can use with your students in class. Drawing on information from Docs Help I summarized the four main accessibility features namely voice typing, screen magnification, Braille display, and screen readers. I also outlined steps on how to access each of these functionalities from within your documents. Some of these features work on Google Slides and Sheets.
Google Docs Accessibility Features
Here are some four key Google Docs accessibility features
1- Screen reader
Docs allows you to use the screen reader software of your choice (e.g., ChromeVox, NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver, etc). To turn on screen reader support:
- Â Open a document in Google Docs.
- Â Click on Tools.
-  Select Accessibility settings. Follow the instructions provided by the screen reader software you use. Â
2- Screen magnifier
The screen magnifier feature, which is available on Mac and Chrome OS, lets you “zoom in to make everything bigger on your screen”. Here is how to turn on Screen magnifier on Google Docs:
- Â Open a document in Google Docs.
- Â Click on Tools.
- Â Select Accessibility settings.
- Â Click on Turn on screen magnifier support.
3- Type with your voice
Voice typing is a feature that is only available on Chrome browsers. To start using this feature make sure your microphone is working then:
- Open a document on Google Docs.
- Click on Tools and select Voice typing.
- Click on the microphone to speak.
There is also the voice command feature which you can use to edit and format your documents. Check out this page for a list of such commands.
4- Braille display
Docs editor support Braille display enabling users to easily read and edit documents. Here is how to turn it on:
- Â Open a document in Google Docs.
- Â Click on Tools.
- Â Select Accessibility settings.
- Â Check the ‘Turn on screen reader support’ box
- Â Check the ‘Turn on braille support’ box.
Final thoughts
Google Docs offers a suite of powerful accessibility features that can significantly enhance the learning experience for students with diverse needs. By utilizing tools like screen readers, screen magnifiers, voice typing, and Braille displays, educators can ensure that all students have the opportunity to engage with the content effectively. Implementing these features is straightforward, making it easy to incorporate them into your teaching practice. Whether you are working with Google Docs, Slides, or Sheets, these accessibility options can help create an inclusive classroom environment where every student can thrive.
