About the AEM Center
The National Center on Accessible Educational Materials for Learning at CAST provided technical assistance, coaching, and resources to increase the availability and use of accessible educational materials and technologies for learners with disabilities across the lifespan.
Why accessible materials & technologies?
Accessible versions of educational materials may mean the difference between learning barriers and learning opportunities.
NIMAS & NIMAC
NIMAS is a technical standard used by publishers to prepare “electronic files” that are used to convert instructional materials into accessible formats. NIMAC is a national center that stores NIMAS source files from publishers.
Learning on the Go: ADA Title II Updates and Requirements
In April 2024, the United States Department of Justice issued a final rule requiring state and local governmental entities — including early childhood, elementary, secondary, and postsecondary institutions — to ensure web- or mobile app-based digital learning resources are appropriate for and usable by students with disabilities.
Explore more about Title II ADA Updates and Requirements through The Accessible Learning Experience Podcast S. 03 Ep. 11
Featured AEM Center Resources
Learn more about AEM Center resources
AEM Takeaways
Dive into the AEM Takeaways series for quick, exciting lessons on accessible materials and technology! Watch short videos where AEM experts break down terms and practices, then get real-world insights from field professionals. Plus, explore extra resources to supercharge your training in schools, universities, or any setting you choose!
Getting Unstuck: How a Few Determined Educators Strategically and Serendipitously Advanced Accessible Educational Materials
This paper presents the findings from the second case in a multiple-case study examining the implementation of federal and state policies by State Education Agencies (SEAs) and Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to provide Accessible Educational Materials (AEM) to disabled students in two Southern states
AEM Center at CAST
2024
Open Education Resources: Ensuring Inclusive Learning in Uncertain Times
Situated at the intersection of where the OER field meets accessibility issues, this guide details a variety of resources useful for evaluating and selecting appropriate and accessible OERs.
A. Hashey, et al.
2021
AEM Navigator
Use the AEM Navigator to make informed, accurate decisions about the acquisition of accessible formats for students who need them.
AEM Center at CAST
2021
The Accessible Learning Experience
Turn learning barriers into learning opportunities by exploring the world of accessibility and Universal Design for Learning in this monthly podcast.
Upcoming AEM Center Events
Learn more about AEM Center events
How-To Create Accessible Documents: A Step-by-Step Guide
Join us for an interactive workshop on creating accessible documents. We’ll walk you through practical steps to ensure your content is inclusive and meets accessibility standards. Whether you’re using Microsoft Office, Google Docs, or other tools, we’ll cover essential techniques for making your documents accessible to all users.9:45AM – 10:45AM ET on Friday, January 31, 2025
AEM's Got Talent
Join us for an interactive showcase on Accessible Educational Materials (AEM), assistive technology (AT), and accessible technology. Discover their unique characteristics, explore real-life examples, and gain implementation tips. Engage in discussions, reflect on practices, and share experiences. By the end, you’ll understand how these elements create inclusive learning environments for all students.2:15PM – 3:15PM ET on Friday, January 31, 2025
Accessibility Matters: The What, Why & How
Participants will learn how accessible materials interconnect with assistive technologies, explore design advantages, common issues, and best practices. They will gain practical experience in testing and reviewing materials and understand how accessibility and assistive technologies work together. By the end, participants will be equipped to design inclusive and effective materials from the start.9:00AM – 12:00PM ET on Wednesday, March 12, 2025