network for excellence in
    mathematics and statistics support

Accessibility SIG resource working day – 26th March 2018

An Accessibility SIG working day hosted by the Eureka Centre For Mathematical Confidence, Loughborough University on Monday 26th March, 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 are looking for participants with relevant experience and expertise to help develop these resources, starting with a working day in Loughborough on Monday 26th March.

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
  • Dyscalculia
  • 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 will be distributed 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 Monday 26th March 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