The project is developing software to make computer-aided chemistry experiments more accessible to students who have visual impairments. The software is to run on an ordinary personal computer equipped with adapted outputs (synthetic speech, electronic music, and enlarged text and graphics). Experimental data is acquired through a modular data acquisition subsystem designed for use in educational laboratories. Experiments for which software is being developed include the instrumental methods commonly used in lower level chemistry courses, and the software includes a data analysis package which enables visually impaired students to perform extensive analysis on data acquired with the system. The system and its software will be usable at any educational level where instrumental measurements are performed, and should be readily adaptable to disciplines other than chemistry.
