Historically, the World Wide Web has not provided a simple means for presenting math content online. Mathematicians and scientists typically use software such as and for typesetting complex formulas and then convert these formulas to images for presentation online.
There are many resources for purchasing or creating technology and materials that make science labs accessible to students with a variety of disabilities. Conducting a web search will locate some of them, but the following websites provide a good place to start:
The DO-IT publication, Universal Design of Web Pages in Class Projects, provides guidance for instructors who want to incorporate universal design and accessibility content into their web design classes. The publication includes options for teachers who wish to provide short introductions on web accessibility as well as more comprehensive coverage of the topic.
The is the federal law that supports special education and related service programming for children and youth with disabilities. It was originally known as the Education of Handicapped Children Act, passed in 1975. In 1990, amendments to the law were passed, effectively changing the name to IDEA. In 1997 and again in 2004, additional amendments were passed to ensure equal access to education.
Conveying mathematical equations in Braille is usually accomplished through the use of specialized math Braille codes. In the United States, a generally accepted practice is to use Nemeth Braille code. Students may also use a type of two-dimensional spatial tactile mathematics notation called DotsPlus, which is a composite of standard Braille with raised lines and symbols.
The Television Decoder Circuitry Act of 1990 required that television sets with screens 13 inches or larger manufactured for sale in the United States must have built-in closed-caption decoder circuitry that allows viewers to display closed captions on their sets. Closed captioning is technology that provides visual text to describe dialogue, background noise, and sound effects in television programming. The deadline for compliance with this act was July 1993.
Yes, there are many web browsers that include special features for use by individuals with disabilities.
Many individuals with different types of disabilities have difficulty accessing the information in graphs, charts, drawings, and three-dimensional models. For example, a student with a visual impairment may be unable to visually extract the information in a graph. A student with a mobility impairment may be unable to physically manipulate a three-dimensional model. A student with a learning disability may have difficulty decoding the information in a graph.
is a two dimensional Braille format designed to express complex mathematical equations in a format similar to standard print math notation. DotsPlus Braille allows standard Braille and tactile graphical math symbols to be used simultaneously within spatial equations in a form identical to that used in standard printed math documents.
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The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) prohibits discrimination and ensures equal opportunity for persons with disabilities in employment, State and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and transportation. It also mandates the establishment of TDD/telephone relay services.