näytönlukuohjelma

A näytönlukuohjelma, or screen reader, is a software application that enables blind, visually impaired, and illiterate users to read the text that is displayed on the computer screen. It does this by converting text to synthesized speech or to a braille display. Screen readers are a vital assistive technology for many individuals, allowing them to access and interact with digital content that would otherwise be inaccessible.

These programs work by intercepting information that would normally be sent to the display. Instead of rendering it visually, the screen reader processes it and then outputs it through audio or a braille device. This includes text from websites, documents, applications, and operating system interfaces. Screen readers often provide additional features such as the ability to navigate the screen, read out the content of menus and dialog boxes, and even provide information about the user's location within an application.

Commonly used screen readers include JAWS (Job Access With Speech), NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access), and VoiceOver (built into Apple operating systems). The effectiveness of a screen reader is heavily dependent on the accessibility of the software and websites it interacts with. Developers are encouraged to create accessible content that is compatible with these assistive technologies, ensuring a more inclusive digital environment for everyone. Learning to use a screen reader effectively often involves a learning curve, but for its users, it opens up a world of information and opportunity.