Re: accessible math
- From: "tribble" <lauraeaves@xxxxxxxxx>
- To: <programmingblind@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:17:59 -0600
For those not on the blindmath list, ViewPlus Inc is working on a 2d tactile
representation of math (DotsPlus) -- I requested a sample of the output.
What I received was a tactile image of a page from an algebra book
containing a 2d representation of the quadratic formula -- the fraction line
and square root symbols were tactile graphics, and the variables and
constants were in braille.
Speaking as someone who had print reading vision learning math and doing
braille later, I found this to be a great compromise between tactile and
print -- I mean, it is very easy to read even if you aren't a proficient
braille reader (which I am not), and I think it would greatly simplify the
meaning of an equation for a blind student learning math as well. In
addition, the spatial layout of the equation is visible to a sighted
teacher, so he/she can assist a blind student more easily.
The only drawback is that the code can't currently be displayed on
refreshable braille displays, or for that matter, printed by all embossers.
But it is a great idea.
Thought I'd mention it. ViewPlus is the producer of the Tiger embossers,
which are pricy, but also do a lot more than most embossers. (I don't have
one, but next time I win the lottery I will be considering it...*smile*)
--le
----- Original Message -----
From: "Dónal Fitzpatrick" <dfitzpat@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: <programmingblind@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Friday, November 21, 2008 11:45 AM
Subject: RE: accessible math
Hi,
There are several ways of showing math on the web.
1. The first (and most common) is to take an equation generated in LaTeX
and produce some kind of image from it. This image can have (as with all
images) alt-text associated with it. As Dorene says, you're at the mercy of
whoever puts the textual description in there which can, as we all know, be
a problem.
2. The second, and more recent way of doing this, is to use a markup schema
such as mathML. Browsers are starting to support this format; usually
through plug ins. There is a tool from a company called Design Science
called Mathplayer. It runs as a plug in to IE6 or higher and enables
equations to be spoken. It isn't bad, though a lot of work still needs to
go into it.
The fundamental problem with this, of course, is that, when you convert from
a printed equation to a textual representation, you are effectively going
from a two-dimensional presentation to a very serially oriented one. If the
equation is very long, this can pose problems. For example, it's one thing
presenting the symbols but yet another depicting the semantics. (I could go
on and on ad nauseum about this topic but I'll shut up now! *smile*
Best,
Dónal
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