Can anyone recommend any good training tools for staff for using Jaws, Supernova etc ? The problem we have is that staff are trained but then need refreshers (see previous post about lack of use!) any useful strategies? I did think about having a “jaws” expert who could keep up to date & cascade training. Has anyone tried this ?

I work in a library where we have JAWS installed on several PCs, however as queries are few and far between, we definitely fall into the same category.

I work in a Resource Centre situated in Edinburgh’s Central Library. We differ in that we do have a daily demand from people using screed readers. I am there every day and have become familiar with the complexities of Supernova. As the Centre is very busy with people who have a variety of needs, we usually have two staff members on hand. The trouble is that the assistance comes from a pool of 11 library assistants. In real terms they are not exposed to the technology enough, even although they have maybe worked on and of for many years with screen readers.  I have carried out regular training with my colleagues but have found that when anything happens out with what they have been shown they get a bit lost. Factors such as PCs hanging up, the access technology sometimes plays up and will not perform properly or accidental triggering of obscure keyboard commands that adversely change settings all contribute to both staff and users frustration.  As for a solution, well maybe a designated person who has shown an aptitude is the best compromise. This is not ideal, but as I say it may be the only practical strategy. When I started my job I would go round the branch library’s trying to train the staff, it was a waste of my time and their time for reasons given in previous posts. Regular users of Jaws software will tell you it is easy to use, and it is if you work with it daily, however I have found that an third hand would prove more than helpful when trying to perform some of the keyboard commands.