Math Articles and Research

A Software Tutorial for Learning the Nemeth Code of Braille Mathematics 
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness
December 2002, Volume 96, Number 12
Author(s): Gaylen Kapperman and Jodi Sticken
Abstract: This article describes a software tutorial that can be used by people who are blind to learn the Nemeth Code of braille mathematics notation. The program was designed for use with the Braille Lite, a note taker that has speech and a refreshable braille display, manufactured by Freedom Scientific.

Representation of Simple Graphs in Virtual Tactile Space 
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness
November 2000, Volume 94, Number 11
Author(s): Harry J. Wyatt, Elaine C. Hall, and Kimberly Engber
Abstract: The authors developed and conducted a preliminary evaluation of an intermediate form of presentation that provides a virtual dynamic tactile display. Such a device could be a standard addition to computers for people who are blind, in the form of an augmented mouse. It could provide real-time display of information to students of geometry, professionals in technical fields, persons examining financial charts, and so forth. This article describes the methods and results of this research.

Preparation in and Use of the Nemeth Braille Code for Mathematics by Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness
August 2004, Volume 98, Number 8
Author(s): L. Penny Rosenblum and Sheila Amato
Abstract: This study examined the preparation in and use of the Nemeth braille code by 135 teachers of students with visual impairments. Almost all the teachers had taken at least one course in the Nemeth code as part of their university preparation. In their current jobs, they prepared a variety of materials, primarily basic operations, word problems, tactile graphics, and fractions.

Use of the Talking Tactile Tablet in Mathematics Testing 
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness
February 2003, Volume 97, Number 2
Author(s): Steven Landau, Michael Russell, Karen Gourgey, Jane N. Erin, and Jennifer Cowan
Abstract: This article describes an experimental system for administering multiple- choice math tests to students who are visually impaired or otherwise print disabled. Using a new audio-tactile computer peripheral device called the Talking Tactile Tablet, the authors created a preliminary version of a self-voicing test that included 12 items, all of which referred to a graphical element. Users could take the test, working through the items at their own speed and learning about associated tactile graphic diagrams by pressing on various features to hear appropriate audio descriptions.

A Case for Increased Training in the Nemeth Code of Braille Mathematics for Teachers of Students Who Are Visually Impaired
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness
February 2003, Volume 97, Number 2
Author(s): Gaylen Kapperman and Jodi Sticken
Abstract: This article provides evidence of the lack of knowledge of the Nemeth Code by teachers of students who are blind or visually impaired and the importance of blind and visually impaired students learning the Nemeth Code.  The workplace requires increasingly advanced computational and technological skills.  People who do not possess these skills have restricted earnings potential. Without the ability to read and write the symbols that represent mathematical concepts, the field of mathematics is closed to persons who are visually impaired.  However, at the moment teachers are not properly prepared to teach these skills.