While this situation affects all computer users at one time or another, it can be an especially formidable obstacle for blind and visually impaired computer users. And, though most hardware and software arrives with a manual that is intended to instruct the new user on the basics of the component, accessing these manuals can also present a challenge. For people who rely on screen readers to access a computer, the learning process is a two-pronged undertaking. First, is learning the new product, and simultaneously, is learning how the new product functions from the keyboard and how the new product works with a particular screen reader. The first stage in the learning process is to acquire an understanding of an individual's best way of learning.
People think and learn in different ways.
In any group, there will always be evidence of different learning characteristics, and different cultural groups may emphasize one cognitive style over another. Learning styles are distinguished by considering the holistic vs. the analytic learner. An important factor in understanding learning styles is understanding brain functioning. Both sides of the brain can reason, but by different strategies, and one side may be dominant. The left brain is considered analytic in approach, while the right is described as holistic or global.