Computer aided math learning as a tool to assess and increase motivation in learning math by visually impaired...

Area of Science:

• Education
• Mathematics
• Accessibility

Background:

• Mathematics education presents significant challenges for visually impaired students due to difficulties with structured information in formulae.
• Effective math learning is crucial for academic and professional success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present and evaluate an extended multimedia alternative method for teaching mathematics to visually impaired students.
• To compare this method with classical teaching approaches and assess its impact on student motivation.

Main Methods:

• Developed an extended multimedia alternative method incorporating problem decomposition and knowledge vector concepts.
• Utilized a qualitative method with eleven motivators to evaluate student motivation during the learning process.
• Compared the alternative method against the classical teaching method.

Main Results:

• The alternative method showed statistically significant improvements in four of eleven assessed categories, including learning progress, material presentation, and student approval.
• The study enhanced understanding of the limitations and challenges faced by visually impaired students in mathematics education.
• Positive impacts on student motivation were observed.

Conclusions:

• The proposed decomposition method and knowledge vector evaluation positively increase motivation for visually impaired students in mathematics.
• The alternative method increases the availability of structured mathematical information for blind students.
• It reduces communication barriers, promotes self-study, and enhances student independence.