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Re: how to detect images having math expressions

for

From: Sean Keegan
Date: Jun 5, 2008 5:30PM

>> Asking for clarification - is it the addition of MathML
>> to a Web page that is of little practical value (for
>> accessibility purposes) or is it the addition of the
>> MathML equivalent to an image when such image
>> already has suitable alternate text?

> Both, because there is so little to be gained in practice
> and so much work to be done, and time is better spent in
> doing other things.

Perhaps it all depends on context as I have to disagree that there is so
little to be gained in practice. Within the environment I reside, it is
already a challenge for many to add an appropriate text description to
images of a math equations and allowing assistive technologies to read
MathML-based content is an improvement on the status quo.

There are several assistive technologies that can utilize MathML-based
Web content to communicate the math information to the user. Is it
great? No, but such functionality is better than no access at all.
Additionally, the benefits for having the capability to transform said
content into alternate formats, IMO, outweighs the consequences.

I do fully agree with you that there is much work to be done; may it be
done sooner than later.

Take care,
Sean