An Accessibility SIG working day hosted by the Mathematics Resources Centre (MASH), University of Bath on Thursday 16th August, 9:30-16:00
Call for participants
The sigma Network Accessibility Special Interest Group aims to produce two sets of guidance resources on accessibility in a mathematics support context. The first set will be for mathematics and statistics support tutors and the second for those running mathematics support centres. We started to develop these resources at our first working day in March and we are looking for participants with relevant experience and expertise to continue the work at a second working day in Bath on Thursday 16th August.
Share your experience and expertise
We are looking for participants with experience of or expertise in one or more of the following areas in a mathematics/statistics learning and teaching context:
- Mathematics/statistics anxiety
- Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia and other SpLDs
- Autistic Spectrum Conditions
- Mathematics without pen and paper
- Visual impairment
- Supporting mature students
- Supporting students with English as a second language
- Supporting students with vocational entry qualifications in a selective context
We are also looking for participants with experience of or expertise in:
- Selecting and using assistive technology in a mathematical/statistical context
- Designing accessible mathematics support spaces
Resource production process
Roughly filled templates and current drafts will be available to read and work on prior to the working day. At the working day we aim to produce drafts and specific actions to continue the work beyond the day. Further working days may follow this one, depending on the progress made. The resources will be trialled in several mathematics support centres and then improved as necessary.
What participants might gain
This is an opportunity to work with colleagues who have similar research and development interests. For those working towards HEA Fellowship, participating in this process could help to provide evidence towards elements of the UK Professional Standards Framework. Finally, participants who take an active role in the process will be the listed authors/reviewers of the resources and will be offered co-authorship of any resulting publications.
Expressions of interest invited
To express interest in taking part in this process and in attending the working day on Thursday 16th August please email Emma Cliffe, E.H.Cliffe@bath.ac.uk and Clare Trott, C.Trott@lboro.ac.uk with a short summary of your area(s) of experience and expertise. Please note, you do not need to be a sigma member to participate.
Costs
Refreshments will be provided at the working day. We have a limited budget to support this work and we hope that in most cases participants’ institutions will be able to fund their travel. We may be able to provide limited subsidy of travel expenses for those with key expertise who would like to contribute but whose institution is unable to assist with travel costs. Please state if you would need this support in your email, the likely costs and the key expertise you are able to offer.
Draft schedule
| 9.30-10.00 | Arrival with tea/coffee |
| 10.00-10.30 | Introduction to the SIG and the leaflets |
| 10.30-11.15 | Generating ideas |
| 11.15-11.35 | Coffee/tea |
| 11.35-12.30 | Writing |
| 12.30-1.30 | Lunch |
| 1.30-2.45 | Writing |
| 2.45-3.05 | Tea/coffee |
| 3.05 – 4.00 | Finalising leaflets |