Visual impairment in MSOR

Mathematics, statistics and operational research (MSOR) present unique difficulties in the accessibility of content for students with visual impairments which are often little understood and so can be overlooked. This paper focuses on areas where MSOR subjects differ from general accessibility considerations, drawing on a qualitative study of staff and students from four UK universities. An outline is given of methods of accessing MSOR content covering Braille, large print, speech, graphics, software and equipment such as scientific calculators. Accessing MSOR content in these forms causes some difficulties, particularly in reading, comprehending, manipulating and writing notations and graphics using linear and tactile formats. The conversion of materials to alternative formats can be time consuming and error prone causing difficulties to students in reading around the subject or following the course at the usual rate. Traditional teaching methods can cause problems, particularly where the student is expected to see lecture content on a screen or board. Advance materials and care over spoken mathematics can greatly assist here. Assessment can be unusually time-consuming and extensions may be necessary, although these can cause additional stresses for students trying to complete an increased assessment load in the same time period. Students with visual impairments can study MSOR subjects successfully provided the right support is in place. What constitutes the right support depends greatly on the student’s individual needs and these must be listened to….