About the AEM Center
The National Center on Accessible Educational Materials for Learning at CAST provides 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.
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
The 3 AEMigos: The Synergy Between AT, Accessible Materials, and Technology
In this session, participants delve into the interplay between Accessible Educational Materials (AEM), Assistive Technology (AT), and classroom technology. Expect clarity on their distinctions, real-world examples of collaboration, and actionable strategies for educators. By the end, attendees will grasp how AEM, AT, and technology synergize to empower students with disabilities, fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment.11:20AM – 12:20PM CT on Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Reframing Perspectives: Empowering Students with AT
Join this engaging session where experts from CAST and Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) challenge misconceptions about accessible educational materials (AEM) and assistive technology (AT). Rather than considering these tools as cheating, we’ll explore how they foster Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and empower students. Through personal anecdotes and interactive discussions, we’ll reshape perspectives and champion accessibility in education.8:00AM – 9:00AM CT on Thursday, October 24, 2024