From Diagrams to Dialogue – A New Approach to Digital Accessibility

In STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education, visuals like detailed drawings, equations, graphs, and long tables are essential for understanding complex concepts. However, these types of content can be challenging for students who rely on screen readers or other assistive technologies.

Creating alternative text for such content is not easy. Too little detail can leave out essential information, while too much can be overwhelming and confusing.

As the School Academic Lead for Inclusive Pedagogies (SALIP) in the School of Civil Engineering, I wanted to find a practical and inclusive solution that would support all learners without burdening staff.