Tab Key on keyboard reveals hotspots that should be hidden
Jul 16, 2014
I have created a software simulation module. There are text entry fields and hotspots with triggers. Things have to be done in a certain sequence and the learner navigates parts of the course doing things in correct sequence. Although the tab key on the keyboard was not specifically programmed into the course, I notice that the tab key when pressed will display a yellow border around the various objects on the screen and will do this in the sequence of interaction expected of the learner. The TAB key - yellow border effect reveals hotspots/triggers that should be hidden.
How do I prevent this tab effect from happening?
15 Replies
The Tab key is used to provide accessibility for learners who can't use a mouse. You can turn off the yellow border for an object like your hotspot, by unchecking the 'Object is visible to accessibility tools' in the Size and Position > Alt Text dialog.
Thanks Michael! It works!
Do you know if there is a way to do this globally in a file? or across a number of slides?
There is no global setting to turn off the accessibility highlights.
Is there an update for this? Changing the setting for each and every hotspot or text field is time consuming.
I've also tried the solution provided and a yellow outline still shows.
Hi FPS,
Thanks for reaching out! I confirmed on the latest update of Storyline 360 if the hotspot is included in the Focus Order, and there is interactivity with the hotspot, you will be able to tab to it and a yellow outline will appear.
You'll have to remove it from the Focus Order as shown below!
Thank you very much! I believe I have also seen this solution on your YouTube channel (Updates).
I hope there's a way to have a switch to turn this off for all hotspots as hotspots are used most of the time for activities where learners have to demonstrate their knowledge on navigating systems or tools. Anyway, we'll work on this current solution.
Thanks again!
I have removed the Hotspot from the Focus Order and 'Object is visible to accessibility tools' is unchecked. However, users are still able to tab to the Hotspot... any ideas why?
Hi Ghislaine,
Thanks for reaching out about this! I did some more testing on a hotspot. To add clarity, if the hotspot has any interactivity attached to it, like a trigger, for example, it will remain visible in the Focus Order.
Can you try using a transparent shape with the trigger or add the trigger to the object itself that the hotspot is over to see if that helps?
Hi Ren,
That's what I thought. The best option would be to use a transparent shape. Thanks!
Hi Ren! I'm back and I've just experienced what Ghislaine have experienced (hotspot still accessible via tab though removed from focus order and accessibility). I applied the workaround (using a transparent shape) as you've suggested and it works. Though it works, we hope Articulate still works on the accessibility/focus order issue of the hotspot. Working on an invisible shape when editing is tedious -- not good for user experience. Thanks!
Hello
I have removed the hotspot from the focus order and unchecked the accessibility. Unfortunately, the hotspot is still showing up via tab. Is there a solution to this topic?
I am not sure how the workaround works? I created a transparent shape over the slide but the hotspot still appears via tab.
Thank you!
Hi Barbara,
You are experiencing a bug in the software that has already been reported. I'm going to add your voice to the report. If there's any news regarding this bug, this conversation will be updated.
Regarding the workaround, the transparent shape has to be linked to the trigger that was linked to the hotspot or add the trigger to the object itself that the hotspot is over.
I hope that helps!
Hi John,
yes, please update me, if this bug is fixed. The sooner the better!
The hotspot is part of a quiz where users need to find the mistake and click on it. If the mistake is revealed via tab that defeats the whole purpose of the quiz.
Thank you in advance!
Is there a way to restrict keyboard tabbing to slide items only?
Update: Seems this is what "skip navigation shortcut" was meant for.
You got it, Vincent!
If anyone is interested in learning more about the skip navigation shortcut, you can check out this article: