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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#467886" vlink="#96607D" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Howdy J!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>It's awesome that you're working to support your student’s ability to engage fully in their statistics course, especially with both reading and composing math expressions. The scenario you're dealing with is not uncommon, and there are a few approaches that might help bridge the gap until they feel more comfortable with LaTeX or similar tools. Here are some options that could make math composition more accessible for your student using VoiceOver on a Mac:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>1. Math Input with VoiceOver in Microsoft Word (Equation Editor)<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>The Microsoft Equation Editor has made progress in terms of accessibility, particularly with screen readers like JAWS and NVDA on Windows. However, on macOS, the experience with VoiceOver remains more challenging. The navigation and editing of complex equations are not always intuitive, and screen readers may not read more complicated expressions correctly.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>This means while Word’s Equation Editor could work for basic needs, it's not the most reliable option for complex math on macOS with VoiceOver.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>You could test it out with the student to see if it meets their immediate needs for simple equations, but I’d recommend preparing alternatives for more complex expressions.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>2. Use of MathType<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>MathType is a more robust option for creating math expressions and integrates well with Word and other programs. However, its accessibility with VoiceOver is also limited. As of now, it may require extra steps and isn't considered very VoiceOver-friendly. That said, it can still output MathML and LaTeX, which are more accessible formats.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>3. Overleaf (Collaborative LaTeX Writing)<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>While LaTeX might seem out of reach for your student now, tools like Overleaf could offer a middle ground. Overleaf is a web-based LaTeX editor that works in collaboration with others, allowing your student to get help as they learn. LaTeX is known for its accessibility and is often easier for screen readers to navigate than graphical math editors. Overleaf can allow a sighted peer or instructor to help the student while they gradually learn LaTeX.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>4. Plain-Text Descriptions with a Structured Format<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>As the instructor proposed, writing math using structured text (e.g., "sum of x from i equals 1 to n") can be a useful stopgap. You can establish a consistent way of writing descriptions for complex expressions, perhaps building off <b>MathSpeak</b> conventions, which provide a structured way of speaking and writing math that is screen-reader friendly. With practice, the student can develop fluency in these descriptions, and it reinforces the idea that they are still engaging fully with the content.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>5. MathSpeak and Nemeth Code<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Though more suited for advanced users or those familiar with Braille, <b>MathSpeak</b> offers a standardized way of describing mathematical expressions verbally, often used by blind or visually impaired users. This can be helpful in establishing precise, screen-reader-friendly communication of math. <b>Nemeth Code</b>, a Braille-based system for mathematics, is another option, but this would require Braille proficiency and additional training.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>6. MathML for Composition<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>While MathML is more commonly used for reading math content aloud (like in your plan for converting LaTeX to MathML), it can also be a potential tool for writing math. However, manually typing MathML might be cumbersome for the student. MathType and other editors can output MathML, but editing MathML directly with VoiceOver is currently not an ideal solution.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>7. VoiceOver’s Web Math Solutions<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Some web-based tools like <b>Desmos</b> (for graphing) have improved VoiceOver support, though this might not cover all mathematical needs. Similarly, <b>WIRIS</b> (a web-based math editor) has some VoiceOver accessibility, but its ability to navigate through equations and complex math could be limited depending on the student’s level of comfort with VoiceOver.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Long-Term Plan: Transition to LaTeX<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>It’s great that the student plans to learn LaTeX in the future, as it is widely regarded as one of the most accessible ways to both read and write mathematical notation for blind users. Structuring learning sessions for LaTeX over time will provide a powerful skill they can use in academia.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>The Overleaf platform, mentioned earlier, could be a good way to gradually introduce LaTeX, allowing real-time preview and collaboration with others.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></span></div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Actionable Steps<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><ol style='margin-top:0in' start=1 type=1><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Assess VoiceOver Compatibility with Word’s Equation Editor</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>: Try out the latest version of Microsoft Word’s Equation Editor with VoiceOver on macOS to see how effective it is for your student. Be cautious of limitations for more complex equations.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Use Plain-Text Math Descriptions with a System</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>: If the student sticks with this approach, create a standard format for describing math expressions, possibly referencing MathSpeak conventions.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Explore Overleaf for Collaborative LaTeX Writing</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>: This could introduce your student to LaTeX gradually while giving them a chance to collaborate and get real-time feedback from others.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>MathSpeak Training</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>: If the student is willing, explore MathSpeak or Nemeth Code as a more precise way of describing math verbally, though these might require additional training.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Monitor Accessibility Updates</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>: Stay updated on any new developments in VoiceOver compatibility with tools like Word’s Equation Editor or MathType as updates roll out.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></li></ol><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Final Thought<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>You're absolutely right in wanting to counter the narrative that disabled students can’t do the work or that it’s easier to excuse them from certain tasks. By ensuring the student is equipped with tools and strategies to actively participate, you're helping to remove those attitudinal barriers. It might be a process of trial and error to find the right solution, but with your support, they’ll gain confidence in reading and composing math.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Wishing you and your student the best of luck!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Aaron Di Blasi, </span></b><a href="https://www.pmi.org/"><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>PMP</span></b></a><u><span style='color:blue'><o:p></o:p></span></u></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/aarondiblasi/"><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:windowtext;mso-ligatures:none;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=250 height=250 style='width:2.6041in;height:2.6041in' id="Picture_x0020_2" src="cid:image001.png@01DB0168.A4BEDD00" alt="Aaron Di Blasi, Sr. Project Management Professional, Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., Publisher, Top Tech Tidbits, Publisher, Access Information News stands smiling, arms crossed, in a suit and tie."></span></b></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>“The greatest barrier to accessibility is indifference.”</span></i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif'>💡</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>PR Director </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>(2024-Present)</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>AT-Newswire<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Access Technology's Digital Newswire<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://at-newswire.com"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://at-newswire.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif'>🌐</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span 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style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>(2022-Present)</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Access Information News <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>The Week's News in Access Information<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://accessinformationnews.com"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://accessinformationnews.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif'>🌐</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Publisher </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>(2020-Present)</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Top Tech Tidbits<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>The Week's News in Access Technology<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://toptechtidbits.com/"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://toptechtidbits.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif'>🌐</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Sr. Project Management Professional 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style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>Digital Marketing Associate, </span><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><a href="https://mvsltd.com/news/aaron-di-blasi-pmp-mind-vault-solutions-ltd-awarded-digital-marketing-associate-certification-by-meta/" target="_blank"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>Meta Certified</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'> (2022 - Present)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>Social Marketing Professional, </span><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><a href="https://mvsltd.com/news/aaron-di-blasi-pmp-mind-vault-solutions-ltd-awarded-social-media-marketing-certification-by-hootsuite-world-leader-in-social-media-marketing-solutions/" target="_blank"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>Hootsuite Certified</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'> (2020 - Present)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>Email Marketing Professional, </span><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><a href="https://mvsltd.com/news/aaron-di-blasi-pmp-mind-vault-solutions-ltd-named-a-constant-contact-certified-solution-provider/" target="_blank"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>Constant Contact Certified</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'> (2019 - Present)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>Specializing in:</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>Digital Strategy and Content Marketing<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>Social Media Advertising<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>Online Fundraising<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:16.8pt;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><a href="https://www.ada.gov/" target="_blank"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>ADA</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>, </span><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><a href="https://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/" target="_blank"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>WCAG</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:black'>and </span><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><a href="https://www.justice.gov/crt/section-508-home-page-1" target="_blank"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>Section 508 Compliance</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Website: </span></b><a href="https://mvsltd.com"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://mvsltd.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif'>🌐</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Email:</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><a href="mailto:ad@mvsltd.com"><span 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href="https://mvsltd.com/services"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://mvsltd.com/services</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Testimonials:</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><a href="https://mvsltd.com/testimonials"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://mvsltd.com/testimonials</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Facebook:</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><a href="https://mvsltd.com/facebook"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://mvsltd.com/facebook</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span 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style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>YouTube:</span></b><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><a href="https://mvsltd.com/youtube"><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://mvsltd.com/youtube</span></a><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'>Google:</span></b><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'> </span><a href="https://mvsltd.com/google"><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto;color:blue'>https://mvsltd.com/google</span></a><span lang=PT-BR style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><br><b>CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:</b> This e-mail and attachments, if any, may contain confidential information, which is privileged and protected from disclosure by Federal and State confidentiality laws, rules, and regulations. This e-mail and attachments, if any, are intended for the designated addressee only. If you are not the designated addressee, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this e-mail and its attachments, if any, may be unlawful and may subject you to legal consequences. If you have received this e-mail and attachments in error, please delete the e-mail and its attachments from your computer.</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p></o:p></span></p></div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Roboto'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div><div style='border:none;border-top:solid #E1E1E1 1.0pt;padding:3.0pt 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none'>From:</span></b><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none'> athen-list <athen-list-bounces@mailman12.u.washington.edu> <b>On Behalf Of </b>Romack, Justin via athen-list<br><b>Sent:</b> Saturday, September 7, 2024 7:53 PM<br><b>To:</b> athen-list@u.washington.edu<br><b>Subject:</b> [Athen] Writing math notation with VoiceOver on Mac<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Howdy all!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>I’m working with a blind student studying statistics and we’ve run into a challenge this fall.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>They are taking a class with some heavy math and will need to both read and write math expressions throughout the semester.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>For the reading portion, the professor produces materials in LaTeX and I feel fairly comfortable that we can take their source and convert to HTML w/ MathML. This should address the reading needs.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The composition of math using Voiceover is where I’m a little stumped… Granted, this student anticipates they will learn LaTeX in the future – they don’t know enough now for this to be an option. I’ve heard the MS Equation Editor has become much more usable with JAWS/NVDA, but I don’t know if the same is true for VoiceOver.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One solution that has been proposed by the instructor is for the student to write a literal text description of the math expression, which the student has done for an assignment. We wanted to see if there were other options available or if this was the best route to get them through this course until they are able to do more with LaTeX in the future.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If anyone has thoughts, ideas or firsthand experience, I’m all ears!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>FWIW: This student has had some progressive vision loss, which is why they have had less exposure to techniques like this to this point. Also… they have had well-intended instructors who have dismissed them from doing certain aspects of the work in other classes. I mention this because we need to counter the narrative that our disabled students can’t do it… or that it’s easier to exempt them from doing it… because it puts them at a significant disadvantage as they progress through their area of study. What feels like kindness and empathy is rooted in attitudinal barriers which do more harm than good (and those with sensory disabilities tend to be most adversely impacted by these situations).<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Take good care,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>J<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Justin Romack</b>, Assistant Director<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Disability Resources | Division of Student Affairs<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>1224 TAMU | College Station, TX 77843-1224<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>ph: 979.845.1637 | <a href="mailto:jromack@tamu.edu">jromack@tamu.edu</a> | disability.tamu.edu<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Open Sans",sans-serif;color:#500000'>MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES:</span></b><b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Open Sans",sans-serif;color:black'> </span></b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Open Sans",sans-serif;color:black'><a href="https://caps.tamu.edu/myssp/" target="_blank" title="https://caps.tamu.edu/myssp/">24/7 Professional Counseling</a> | <a href="https://caps.tamu.edu/helpline/" target="_blank" title="https://caps.tamu.edu/helpline/">After-hours Mental Health Support</a> | <a href="https://caps.tamu.edu/emergency-resources/" target="_blank" title="https://caps.tamu.edu/emergency-resources/">Local Emergency Services</a></span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS | One Division. 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