Accessible Mathematics: Representation of Functions Through Sound and Touch

This paper presents a new tool to help people with visual impairments learn mathematical functions through the extensive use of sounds and touch. STEM subjects like mathematics are difficult for this kind of user, since concepts like lines or curves heavily depend on visual content to convey essential information. GraficiAccessibili is a mobile app that allows to draw lines and parabolas in the cartesian plane, incorporating sound and haptic feedback to make them perceivable by all users. Mathematical functions are sonified enabling users to discern the position of their points on the quarters of the cartesian plane through sound cues. Furthermore, the application assists users in exploring the cartesian plane through touch giving haptic feedback for curves and axes. In this way, the user can mentally visualize the graphical representation of the function. Tests were conducted with real users to assess the effectiveness of this approach.