[Blindmath] using Braille for math

[White, Jason J]

> -----Original Message-----
> Questions:
> Would the use of refreshable Braille, hardcopy Braille and/or a device like the
> Math Window while doing math help me to conceptualize problems more easily,
> particularly where advanced and/or heavy Algebra is involved?
[Jason] The algebra you're working with isn't advanced yet, thus I would suggest finding more accessible solutions before it becomes truly complicated.
Nemeth code would give you a much more compact notation to work with that should be easier to read and manipulate for the purpose of solving equations, finding derivatives and integrals, etc.
> If so, would it be most effective for me to use it in addition to, or as a
> replacement for, speech? The biggest problem with using Braille is that my
> teachers don't read it, so I'd have to frequently transcribe back-and-forth from
> Braille to LaTeX. This would be relatively painless for refreshable Braille, but less
> so for the hardcopy variety.

[Jason] Note recent discussion on the list of Nemeth code to TeX translation software, which could make this even easier. Another approach would be to solve the problems in braille, then actually write the final solutions in TeX, with a braille display.
> If I used Braille for math, which math code (UEB or Nemeth) should I learn and
> use? From what I've heard, Nemeth generally takes up less space to convey the
> same content (important for refreshable displays with limited real estate), but
> UEB's presentation of that content is clearer. Also, Nemeth could be replaced by
> the UEB math code in a few years since it's the international standard now.
>
[Jason] Nemeth code was designed by a mathematician who had a talent for developing braille codes. I think it gives a much better representation of mathematical notation than, for example, the British-style braille mathematics that I used at school. Abraham Nemeth himself wrote insightful criticisms of the UEB mathematics code during its development, arguing that it was unsuitable for serious work in mathematics. I don't want to enter into that debate here, however, so please don't regard anything I've written as commentary on that particular controversy. The issues are not just a matter of how much space is taken up on the braille line; it's ultimately a question about the braille user's ability to understand and manipulate the notation in solving a mathematical problem, and how the braille code supports or hinders this process depending on its design.


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