On the other hand, research papers in the sciences are very common and may require the student to create hundreds of math expressions as well as various types of graphs. While mathematics classes rarely have the equivalent of research papers, some proofs may require extensive literary elaboration along with mathematical formulas. Alternatively, the student might need to complete the test using an accessible computer entry method, which may include an onscreen math palette that works with standard or adapted mice (e.g., track ball, head mouse, eye gaze), or speech input enabled math editors like MathTalk or EquatIO. In such cases, human scribes may need to be provided. In the case of traditional “paper and pencil” tests, students with handwriting issues (e.g., dysgraphia, CP, upper mobility impairment) may not be able to legibly write math equations on paper.
The math entry process should allow at least two accessible entry techniques, which may include an accessible navigable math entry palette, the use of easily discoverable keyboard shortcuts, direct braille entry via a refreshable braille display, and/or commonly used qwerty code entry conventions, such as AsciiMath or LaTeX input. When the entry field allows math expressions to be entered, then an accessible math entry technique should be available. When open answer fields are provided in online tests, the response area should ensure that screen readers can access what students are entering as they compose their answers, as well as the ability to read back to them the completed entry. When a test or quiz is created in an online environment, it is important that all elements are labeled and the directions are clear.Ĭheckboxes and radio buttons in the response area need to indicate when a selection is checked or not checked. Students who rely on assistive technology might need to submit assessments in alternate formats.
Online assessments need to ensure that math equations in students’ responses are accessible to assistive technology (AT) software applications.