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Making Math Accessible Without Losing Your Mind (A little bit of LaTeX knowledge goes a long way)

Scheduled at 1:45 pm in Denver 4-6 on Thursday, November 20.

#41247

Speaker(s)

  • Nicholas McNab, Assistive Technology Coordinator, Harvard University

Session Details

  • Length of Session: 2-hr
  • Format: Lab
  • Expertise Level: All Levels
  • Type of session: General Conference

Summary

Converting math content into accessible formats presents unique challenges, especially in fast moving STEM courses where instructors make frequent changes to course content. In this session, attendees will learn how to use tools such as Pandoc, Quarto, and Mathpix to modify, and convert existing LaTeX and PDF files into HTML and other formats. Perfect for remediation specialists or anyone who wants to learn more about the practical side of math accessibility and assistive technology.

Abstract

In the field of higher education, mathematical content presents unique accessibility challenges that go beyond standard remediation practices. Additionally, many instructors often change problem sets or course handouts at the last minute in response to overall class performance, increasing the burden on accessibility specialists.

This session explores practical tips and techniques for transforming existing LaTeX documents and PDFs into accessible formats without losing our minds. Attendees will learn how to use tools like Pandoc, Quarto, and Mathpix to convert complex mathematical content into HTML, EPUB, and Word documents that work with current assistive technologies.

We'll examine real-world scenarios including:

  • Converting LaTeX files with Pandoc to leverage MathML and/or MathJax
  • Working with Mathpix and VSCode to handle PDFs
  • Experimenting with LaTeXML for advanced math handling
  • Decisions regarding different needs (screen readers, literacy tools, Braille)
  • Helping faculty to develop Quarto workflows that support accessibility with minimal intervention

After a quick review of the current state of math accessibility, we'll focus on pragmatic solutions for remediating content. Optional hands-on opportunities will be available through GitHub Codespaces, allowing participants to experiment with sample files and conversion tools. If time permits, we will finish by exploring some options for dealing with image content such as plots and graphs.

Whether you just found out you have to support your first STEM class next semester, or you're looking to enhance your existing toolkit, all levels of experience are welcome.

Keypoints

  1. Knowing a bit about LaTeX can save considerable time when remediating math content
  2. Leveraging the right tool is good, leveraging it in the right way is better.
  3. STEM faculty can be taught to use these tools (and templates) to make everyone's life easier.

Disability Areas

Cognitive/Learning, Vision

Topic Areas

Accessible Course Design, Alternate Format, Assistive Technology, Faculty Development & Support, Uncategorized

Speaker Bio(s)

Nicholas McNab

Nicholas McNab currently works as a coordinator in the Harvard Assistive Technology Center. He holds a Master's in Education focusing on the cognitive and neuroscience of learning disabilities, and has over 17 years of experience working with students and faculty to make complex course content accessible.