Navigating the Computer without a Mouse

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
Updated May 28, 2024
Keyboard commands or shortcuts can improve efficiency and independence for all computer users, including those with visual impairments. The following are reasons why students with visual impairments should learn keyboard commands.
  • Accessibility: Keyboard commands provide an alternative method of navigation and interaction for students with visual impairments who may find using a mouse challenging. They enable users to perform various tasks without relying on precise mouse movements or visual feedback.
  • Efficiency: Keyboard commands allow for quicker navigation and operation of software applications compared to using a mouse. Once mastered, users can perform tasks more rapidly, which is particularly advantageous for students completing assignments or working on time-sensitive tasks.
  • Consistency: Keyboard commands offer a consistent interface across different applications and platforms. Users can rely on standardized keyboard shortcuts for common functions such as copying, pasting, and navigating between windows.
  • Independence: Mastering keyboard commands empowers students with visual impairments to work independently. They can access and interact with digital content independently.
  • Familiarity and Comfort: While some students may initially prefer using a mouse due to familiarity, keyboard commands become more intuitive with practice. As students become proficient in using keyboard shortcuts, they may develop a preference for this method of interaction due to its efficiency and ease of use.
  • Universal Design: Keyboard commands promote universal design principles by providing accessible options for all users, regardless of their visual abilities. 

​Navigate Computer

Navigating the computer can be achieved effectively using keyboard shortcuts and commands. Here's how to navigate the Windows start menu system without a mouse:
 
Activating the Start Menu:
  • Use the Win Key or CTRL + Esc on non-Win Key keyboards to open the Start Menu.
Navigating the Start Menu:
  • Select an item from the Start Menu using the arrow keys or use the keyboard navigation keys (underlined key on the menu).
  • If you're using Windows 2000 or Windows XP, you may need to turn on Menu Navigation Letters:
    • For Windows 2000: Right-click the desktop, choose Properties, go to the "Effects" tab, and clear the checkbox for "Hide keyboard navigation indicators until I use the ALT key."
    • For Windows XP: Right-click the desktop, choose Properties, go to the "Appearance" tab, click "Effects," and clear the checkbox for "Hide underlined letter for keyboard navigation until I press the ALT key."
    • For Windows Vista: Click Start, go to Control Panel, Ease of Access Center, select "Make the keyboard easier to use," and check the box labeled "Underline keyboard shortcuts and access keys."
Navigating Programs:
  • In the Programs section of the Start Menu, use arrow keys or the first letter to move to a selected application or application group.
  • If more than one item begins with the same letter, type it a second time to activate the selection.
  • Use the Enter key to select the program shortcut.
  • Use the right arrow key to open the contents of a folder in the menu system.
  • Use the ESC key to back out of menu selections.
Renaming Items:
  • You can change the name of items in the start menu system by highlighting the item, pressing the Context Menu Key, and selecting the Rename option. This can be beneficial for unique program icons with specific first letters to be activated by pressing the first letter of their name.

​Navigating Desktop

Navigating to and within the desktop on a computer can also be done using keyboard shortcuts and commands.
  • Moving the Focus: Press the Tab key to move in a counterclockwise direction around the screen. To move clockwise, hold down the Shift key while pressing the Tab key.
  • Quickly Gaining Focus on the Desktop: Press Win+M to close all open windows and place focus on the desktop. Alternatively, press the Win key (or use Ctrl+Esc) to pop up the start menu, then press ESC to close it and place focus on the Start button. Press Shift + Tab to move the cursor in a clockwise direction to an undetermined item on the desktop.
  • Moving from Item to Item on the Desktop: Use the arrow keys to move focus to the desired object. Alternatively, type the first letter of the item to place focus on that item. If there are multiple items beginning with the same letter, repeat typing the letter to cycle through them.
  • Selecting and Deselecting Desktop Items: When an item on the desktop is in focus, press the spacebar to select the focused object. Press Ctrl+Spacebar to remove the selection highlight.
By mastering these keyboard shortcuts and commands, students can efficiently navigate the computer without the need for a mouse, enhancing accessibility and usability for individuals with visual impairments.

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