JAWS, or Job Access With Speech, is a highly crucial technical skill often sought out by companies of diverse industries, especially in tech and digital fields. It's an industry-leading screen reading software that is widely used by people with visual impairments. It allows users to read screen content via text-to-speech or by a braille display, making digital content accessible to all, hence promoting inclusive working environments.
Mastery of JAWS implies the expertise to leverage this software to ensure digital accessibility of websites, applications, and digital content for visually impaired users. It involves having proficient knowledge of the software's functionality and troubleshooting and understanding how it interacts with various operating systems, internet browsers, and applications.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate their ability to create, modify, and manage JAWS scripts to customize software behavior, optimize sites and applications for JAWS, and train others in using the software effectively. A solid understanding of accessibility standards, including WCAG and Section 508, often accompanies this skill, as these rules guide the creation of materials optimized for screen readers like JAWS.
Related foundational skills that serve as a basis for learning JAWS include:
1. General computer proficiency: You need to be comfortable with basic computer usage, know various operating systems, and be familiar with common technical terminologies.
2. Basic coding skills: Although not a necessity, knowing programming languages like JavaScript or HTML can be a big advantage.
3. Understanding of accessibility and digital inclusion principles: Knowing the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in digital environments can provide a valuable perspective in using JAWS effectively.
4. Patience and problem-solving abilities: As with any software, using JAWS involves troubleshooting unforeseen issues.
Learning and mastering the JAWS software not only increases your technical skillset, but it profoundly amplifies your contribution towards building an inclusive digital world.
