Alternative formats are comparable versions of digital content that make course resources more accessible for all users. In Canvas, they are provided on demand by the Ally tool which is already integrated in all SPS courses. The alternative formats are made available with the original file so that everything is in one convenient location.
Alternative formats benefit everyone. They empower users to access content in a format that is best suited to their needs. For example: a student may be experiencing eye strain as a result of reading a lot of course material; or may have a preference for auditory learning; or may be challenged by content not being presented in their first language. In these cases, the student would have the option to listen to the MP3 version of that content–or even, to follow along in an ePub version while listening to that audio file. Alternative formats promote inclusivity in SPS courses.
Which Alternative Formats are available in Canvas?
ePub. The universal standard for ebooks. An ePub renders text and content specifically designed as reflowable content. Provides features for users to control text formatting as well as highlighting and bookmarking.
Audio. Enables text in content to be read aloud. MP3 files are the only alternative audio format provided by Ally.
Beeline Reader. Makes reading on-screen easier. Uses an eye-guiding color gradient to facilitate reading through long blocks of text. This helps users read more effectively and to maintain their focus better.
Immersive Reader. Assists with reading and comprehension of texts. Customizes how a user interacts with a document. Users can listen to the text read aloud, or adjust how text appears, by modifying spacing, color and more.
Electronic Braille. Makes content accessible to the visually impaired. a specially formatted document that can be read on a notetaker, or electronic Braille machine.
How do you access Alternative Formats in Canvas?
Alternative formats can be accessed from every page in Canvas by clicking on the icon, located to the right of the main page title. Click on the
icon to access the drop down menu with alternative format options. If you don't see an option to download alternative formats, either Ally isn’t enabled for that course, or the file type is not supported.
Select the Download Alternative Formats option to access content in a different format.
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