Accessible Educational Materials (AEM): An Introduction

Local education agencies (LEAs) are required to provide, in a timely manner, educational materials in accessible formats to students with disabilities who need them to access the general education content (34 C.F.R. § 300.172). Accessible Educational Materials (AEM) are print-based and technology-based educational materials that are designed or enhanced in a way that makes them usable across the widest range of learner variability. Accessible formats provide the same information in another form to address the barriers text-based materials can present for some learners. This course introduces teachers and administrators to AEM. It includes basic definitions and processes as well as relevant case studies and resources. For those who are serving students who require print- or technology-based educational materials in accessible formats (e.g. digital text, audio, large print, braille, and tactile graphics), it provides essential content and guidance.