Customizing Accessibility Settings

Students should be taught how to explore and adjust iOS accessibility features to match their individual needs. Some key tools include:
  • VoiceOver – A gesture-based screen reader that speaks content aloud.
  • Zoom – A screen magnifier with gesture-based navigation.
  • Magnifier – Uses the device’s camera to magnify objects and text.
  • Speak Screen & Speak Selection – Reads text aloud with adjustable voices and speaking rate.
  • Display Accommodations – Includes color filters and text bolding for visual clarity.
Encourage students to experiment with different features to discover what settings are most effective for their visual and learning needs.

App Exploration and Selection

Trial a variety of educational and assistive apps to determine which best support the student’s curriculum access and personal learning style. Helpful tools include:
  • Voice Dream Reader – Text-to-speech app with customizable reading settings.
  • Bookshare Reader – Access to a vast library of accessible eBooks.
  • Seeing AI – Offers object recognition, text reading, and scene description. Note - this is actually built into the accessibility features of iOS devices. Access it through the iOS built-in magnifier app.
  • ClaroPDF, GoodNote, and the built-in Files app – For accessible reading and annotation of PDFs.
Work collaboratively with students to select apps that support both learning goals and interests. Note: if the student is using a school-issued device, it may be managed by the district with app limitations.

Supporting Visual Skills and Magnification

Use iPads to reinforce visual efficiency skills:
  • Activate the built-in Magnifier app or download alternatives for better control and clarity.
  • Use the camera zoom to examine visual details in real-world objects or classroom displays.
  • Introduce digital contrast tools or high-contrast filters to support students with low vision.
  • Practice visual tracking and discrimination with apps designed for vision skills and attention.

Screen Sharing and Remote Collaboration

iPads enable students to collaborate in real time and access instruction from a distance:
  • Teach students to use screen-sharing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or JoinMe.
  • Practice joining virtual sessions, sharing their screens, or viewing shared content during lessons.
  • Enable real-time access to presentations, classroom displays, or peer collaborations from their own device. 
This is especially useful for students who cannot easily see the classroom whiteboard or display screen.

Note-Taking and Digital Text Access

Equip students with tools to organize and interact with print materials digitally:
  • Introduce note-taking apps like Notability, Pages, or GoodNotes for writing, drawing, and typing notes.
  • Use annotation tools within apps to highlight, label, or annotate digital text.
  • Combine with OCR (Optical Character Recognition) apps to access printed handouts or worksheets.
  • Create folders or tags to organize content by subject, date, or project.

Consultation and Resource Access

Use iPads to facilitate collaboration among educators, families, and service providers:
  • Demonstrate accessibility apps and tools during IEP meetings or team consultations.
  • Share websites and videos to explain visual impairments and the accommodations that support them.
  • Model how to use assistive technology so general education teachers understand how to support the student.
iPads become a bridge for demonstrating effective practices and building team understanding.

Guided Access: Keeping Students Focused

Guided Access is an excellent tool for students who may become easily distracted or struggle to navigate the iPad independently.
This feature:
  • Locks the student into a single app
  • Disables certain screen areas or buttons (e.g., ad areas)
  • Prevents switching apps or exiting the activity
  • Allows time limits and passcode protection
Especially helpful for students with complex needs, CVI, or attention-related needs.​
Printable Resource: Guided Access Directions
To make it easier to get started, download the step-by-step handout on how to enable and customize Guided Access on the VI AT Printables page.

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