How to Use a Computer Keyboard for Braille Practice

Learning the Braille alphabet by means of a computer keyboard is made possible by companies who produce specialized labeling kits. These kits, referred to as "keyboard overlays", contain textured stickers that have actual Braille (bumps and dots) imprinted on them. The stickers are sized to fit standard keyboard keys and adhere directly onto individual keyboard letters. These kits are primarily intended for educational and practicing purposes. Whether a student of Braille has a partial visual impairment, is completely blind or has normal sight, anyone desiring to practice Braille can conveniently transform a computer keyboard into a learning tool. The kits were originally designed with the intent to teach true students of Braille and enable them to use the same computer technologies available to sighted people.

Things You'll Need

  • Braille keyboard overlay stickers
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Instructions

  1. Buy Braille Overlay Stickers

    • 1

      Buy a kit containing Braille-specific computer keyboard overlay stickers. As of 2010, self-installed sticker kits can generally be purchased for below $20.

    • 2
      Practice Braille on a Keyboard

      Moisten a sponge or cloth with rubbing alcohol and thoroughly clean the computer keyboard keys. Allow the keys to dry completely. Adhere the Braille textured alphabet stickers to the computer keyboard. Place the Braille sticker labeled "A" directly onto the keyboard key labeled "A". Press and hold the sticker on the key for 10 seconds. Continue in this way, adhering each Braille alphabet sticker to the corresponding alphabet computer key.

    • 3
      Test Your Knowledge

      Type the alphabet in order, from A-Z using the Braille stickers on the keyboard. Pause for several seconds as you touch each Braille letter to allow your tactile senses to memorize the feel of each letter. As you pick up speed, continue to consciously acknowledge each Braille letter solely by touch. Practice Braille anytime you sit down to your keyboard.

    • 4

      Select at random any letter on the keyboard with one index finger. Identify the Braille alphabet letter aloud before verifying the correct answer. As your Braille reading skills advance, you will be ready to graduate from practicing on the computer keyboard to practicing with bona fide Braille books from a library.

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