Screen Reader Architecture Math System (SRAMS)

Many visually impaired people have difficulty learning mathematics. The lack of higher math skills limits educational and job opportunities for many visually impaired people since numerous professions are requiring more technical skills. The objective of the Screen Reader Architecture Math System (SRAMS) is to design, develop, and test a computer based system which uses successful screen reading architecture to enable visually impaired students to independently manipulate math expressions in order to solve math problems. The rules of mathematics will be analyzed and combined with screen reading navigational logic to create a specialized system to assist the visually impaired student in interacting with math expressions and problems. This research is being conducted by Automated Functions, Inc. (AFI) who is a leader in the field of text and graphic based screen reader technology. AFI is expert in the development of portable low cost hardware, which will be used to create a low cost battery powered SRAMS unit. SRAMS will provide tools which make it easier for the visually impaired student to succeed in higher math (i.e., Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Trigonometry, Calculus). This system will provide the means for thousands of visually impaired people to succeed in higher math and therefore be qualified to fill the ever- increasing technical job and educational positions.