Under a contract with the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress, the National Federation of the Blind offers a course in mathematics (Nemeth Code) braille proofreading. This course qualifies successful applicants to proofread mathematics and science materials in braille. Students receive a Library of Congress certificate in mathematics braille proofreading upon successful completion of the course. There is no tuition charge. Necessary instruction materials are provided free of charge by the NFB. Those already certified in mathematics transcribing may test to be certified without enrolling in the course.
Eligibility
- United States citizenship or residency
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Knowledgeable in recommended braille formats for textbooks and technical materials
Prerequisite
One of the following:
- Library of Congress certification in mathematics braille transcription with at least two years experience following certification as a math transcriber to take the Nemeth proofreading test
- At least six months experience as a literary braille proofreader to enroll in the mathematics (Nemeth Code) proofreading course
Equipment Required
- A forty-cell slate, a braillewriter, or a computer using direct input or a software program
Some sources of manual braillewriters and slates include the NFB Independence Market, the American Printing House for the Blind, and Howe Press. Some sources of braille paper (11 by 11 ½ inches, for those not submitting exercises via email) include the NFB Independence Market, the American Printing House for the Blind, Howe Press, and American Thermoform.
How the Course Works
Literary proofreaders wishing to take the mathematics (Nemeth Code) proofreading course will receive instructional materials directly from the NFB. There are three ways to receive instruction:
Local Classes
In some areas local braille transcribing groups include mathematics braille code transcribers who have been certified by the Library of Congress. Classes taught by certified transcribers are one way to receive instruction.
Local Instructors
In cases where there are not enough students to form a class, a transcriber certified for mathematics braille may be able to instruct a single student.
Correspondence
Students unable to find a local class or instructor may take the course by correspondence with the NFB. A local instructor or the NFB will evaluate lessons, depending upon how you receive instruction. Telephone correspondence and consultation is available. Please call Jennifer Dunnam at 612-767-5658.
When submitting exercises, a line length of forty cells is to be used, regardless of method of production. Students are encouraged to submit their exercises on a regular basis (at least monthly) and may submit only one lesson at a time.
Certification Test
Final certification tests are sent upon request from the NFB and are evaluated by the NFB. When requesting the test, students who have taken the course locally must include a letter from their Library of Congress-certified mathematics braille instructor attesting that the student has successfully completed the course. Candidates scoring eighty points or above will receive a Library of Congress certificate in proofreading.
How to Enroll
Applicants can enroll in the course in two ways.
Complete the application online.
Mail a complete print application (Word doc) to:
National Federation of the Blind
Braille Certification Training Program
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place
Baltimore, MD 21230
Whether intending to take the course with a local teacher or through correspondence, prospective students must submit this application form before the course begins.
More Information
For more information, please email our braille certification training program at [email protected] or call us at 410-659-9314, extension 2510.