Using a Screen Reader
We encourage staff to learn about screen readers and become familiar with common problems screen reader users encounter.
Because effective screen reader testing requires multiple devices and software, along with a lot of practice, we recommend this testing be conducted only by Penn's accessibility team or from a staff member who is specifically trained in using screen readers. Please contact web-accessibility@upenn.edu for screen reader testing or training assistance.
Recommended Screen Reader and Browser Combinations
- Mac: Safari and VoiceOver
- Windows: Firefox and NVDA
General Screen Reader Guides and Resources
VoiceOver
All Apple devices had a built-in screen reader called VoiceOver. VoiceOver is best used with Safari (both on MacOS and iOS).
VoiceOver Guides and Resources
- VoiceOver Getting Started Guide
- Using VoiceOver to Evaluate Web Accessibility
- VoiceOver Keyboard Shortcuts Guide
NVDA for Windows
Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA) is a free program for the Windows platform.