Educational accessibility becomes even more essential when working with complex subjects like mathematics. This post walks educators and instructional designers through how to input and render math in an accessible way using Canvas LMS, utilizing both LaTeX and built-in Canvas tools.
Video Guide
Getting Started with Canvas and Math Equations
Start by navigating to a page in Canvas where you want to place your math content. Click on the “Insert Equation” tool in the editor. This tool lets you input equations either graphically or through direct LaTeX entry, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred method.
Use LaTeX to Insert an Equation
LaTeX allows precise control over mathematical formatting. In Canvas, you can select “Insert Equation” and switch to LaTeX editing mode. For instance, entering:
latexCopyEdit\frac{a^2 + b^2}{\sqrt{3}}
and clicking “Done” inserts a clean, scalable equation into your Canvas page.
After adding the equation, use Canvas’ interactive features to adjust its display size. The platform automatically translates LaTeX into MathML, ensuring both visual quality and screen reader compatibility.
Manually Insert an Equation
Canvas supports manual equation construction through its visual editor. You can build expressions with superscripts, fractions, and square roots, making the tool accessible even to those unfamiliar with LaTeX.
Paste LaTeX in HTML
You can paste LaTeX directly into Canvas’ HTML editor, though this method requires careful formatting.
Grab the LaTex from Mathpix. Choose the option wrapped in double dollar signs ($$ ... $$). Canvas reads and renders that equation correctly.
Conversion to MathML
Canvas automatically converts LaTeX to MathML behind the scenes. This conversion allows screen readers to interpret math expressions and enables keyboard navigation, enhancing usability for users with disabilities. There’s no need for alt text.
Screen Reader Compatibility
In the video, we tested each equation’s accessibility using JAWS. We found the raw LaTeX used as alt text failed to convey meaningful information. In this case, it’s best to provide descriptive alt text to ensure that assistive technologies interpret the content effectively.
Final Thoughts on Accessibility
Canvas LMS delivers a comprehensive solution for accessible math content. With support for LaTeX input, visual editing, HTML embedding, and automatic MathML conversion, Canvas equips educators to build inclusive digital classrooms.
Let me be your champion for inclusion. I offer tailored solutions (and self-paced courses!) to ensure your documents meet and exceed compliance expectations. For more detailed insights, tutorials, and in-depth discussions on accessibility and related topics, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel: The Accessibility Guy on YouTube. Subscribe for regular updates!
