Equatio
Resource Overview
Guide to using Equatio, a toolbar and browser extension that makes math and STEM notation more accessible
Equatio is an advanced equation editor that makes math notation more accessible and inclusive. Equatio includes a variety of tools that support students and teachers in creating, understanding, and engaging with digital math objects.
Members of the WashU community can download Equatio using their @wustl email addresses.
For more ideas and technical support, email us or schedule a consult with a CTL staff member.Â
Overview
- Features
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- Whiteboard, an interactive canvas where users can enter math, add text entries, embed videos, draw shapes, and more
- Equatio Mathspace where users can manipulate smart shapes including protractors, pulleys, switches, fuses, and more
- Handwriting Recognition that allows students to input math by hand=
- Screenshot Reader that reads math aloud to users
- STEM Tools including the Periodic Table, a Desmos Graphing Calculator, and a Molecular Viewer
- Math Mentor for users to receive step-by-step tutoring support
- Automatic alt text generation behind every piece of math
See this overview of tools on the Equatio website for a full list, with video demos of the available tools.
- Reasons to use Equatio
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- Students can enhance their learning experience by using multiple methods to create, manipulate, and interact with math and STEM content, supporting core principles of Universal Design for Learning.Â
- Instructors can make math collaborative by using the Mathspace feature to share activities with colleagues or students.
- Students can visualize problems using the Whiteboard’s library of easy-to-use shapes and digital manipulatives.
- Students with vision impairments can use the text-to-speech functionality to read equations aloud or use the magnification and high-contrast options to better view content.
- Equatio’s voice dictation feature can be helpful to students with dysgraphia, fine motor challenges, or hand injuries, as it eliminates the need for precise handwriting or typing.
- Ideas for teaching with Equatio
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Easy
- Make students aware of this university-supported resource with many features that support math and STEM activities. Encourage them to download onto their devices and try it out.Â
Medium
- Coming soon! Equatio is new to our support portfolio. We’ll continue to add ideas for teaching with Equatio as more instructors use the tool.Â
Advanced
- Coming soon! Equatio is new to our support portfolio. We’ll continue to add ideas for teaching with Equatio as more instructors use the tool.Â
- References
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CAST. (2024, July 30). The UDL guidelines 3.0. UDL Guidelines. https://udlguidelines.cast.org/.
Tutorials
- Get Started
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- To install the toolbar on your computer:
- Select “Windows” or “Mac”
- Select “Save”
- Once it has finished downloading, open the Equatio application
- Sign in with Microsoft using your WUSTL email address
- To download the mobile app:
- Select “Try Equatio Mobile”
- Select “Sign in with Microsoft”
- To install the Chrome extension:
- Visit the Chrome web store using Google Chrome browser
- Sign in using any Gmail account or your WUSTL email address
- Select “Add to Chrome”
- Select the “Add extension” option in the pop-up dialog box
- To use the Equatio web app, log in to the website with your WUSTL email address.
- To install the toolbar on your computer:
- Additional Resources
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- Quick Guide (step-by-step instructions for using the tools)
- YouTube Playlist
- Equatio Learning Needs Guide
- Equatio Academy (database containing articles and videos on Equatio features and uses)