What are Alternative Formats?

Alternative Formats are basically differently formatted versions of course content e.g. Canvas pages (html) and files such as Word and PDFs.

When a user clicks on the Alternative Format logo or link, the user is presented with several format options to choose from.

Ally is an integrated tool within Canvas that generates alternative formats of course content.

Available Alternative Formats and their uses:

Tagged OCRed PDF

Description:

This format converts a scanned PDF or image-based PDF into a searchable and selectable text PDF. It adds "tags" that provide structural information, improving accessibility for screen readers and navigation.

Purpose:

- - Students with visual impairments can use screen readers to navigate and understand the document's content.
  - Students who need to search for specific terms within the document can easily do so.
  - Students with learning disabilities may find it easier to highlight and annotate the text.

Use case: A tutor uploads a scanned article from a journal. A student with dyslexia can use the OCRed PDF to highlight and listen to the text using text-to-speech software.

HTML

Description:

This format converts the document into a webpage-like structure, making it easily readable in a web browser. It often simplifies the layout, focusing on the text content.

Purpose:

- - Students with limited internet bandwidth can access the content more quickly.
  - Students who prefer a clean and simple reading experience can use this format.
  - Students using mobile devices may find this format easier to read.

Use case:

A lengthy lecture note PDF is converted to HTML. A student using a smartphone can read the content without having to pinch and zoom constantly.

ePub

Description:

This is a standard eBook format that allows for reflowable text, meaning the text adapts to different screen sizes and font settings.

Purpose:

- - Students who prefer reading on e-readers or tablets can use this format.
  - Students who need to adjust font sizes or styles can do so easily.
  - Students who like to annotate or highlight text within an eBook reader can use this format.

Use Case:

A textbook chapter PDF is converted to ePub. A student can load it onto their e-reader and adjust the font size for comfortable reading.

Electronic Braille (BRF)

Description:

This format converts the document into a Braille Ready File, which can be read by Braille displays or printed on Braille embossers.

Purpose:

Students who are blind or have severe visual impairments can access the content using Braille technology.

Use Case: A PDF is converted to BRF. A blind student can use a Braille display to read the PDF.

Audio (MP3)

Description:

This format converts the text content of the document into an audio file, allowing students to listen to the material.

Purpose:

- - Students with visual impairments or learning disabilities can listen to the content instead of reading it.
  - Students who prefer auditory learning can use this format.
  - Students who want to listen to course materials while commuting or exercising can use this format

Use Case: A complex research paper PDF is converted to MP3. A student with auditory processing disorder can listen to the paper repeatedly to improve comprehension.

BeeLine Reader

Description:

BeeLine Reader uses a color gradient to guide the eye from the end of one line to the beginning of the next, improving reading speed and comprehension.

Purpose:

- - Students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties can find this format helpful.
  - Students who want to improve their reading speed and focus can use this format.

Use Case: A long article is converted to BeeLine Reader format. A student with ADHD can read the article with better focus and reduced eye strain.

Note: The availability and quality of alternative formats depend on the original file's quality and structure. Files with poor image quality or complex formatting may not convert perfectly. However, Ally functions as a remediation tool helping content creators to identify and fix content and the plan is to ensure that all course content is accessible.