Using alternative format options

Canvas users can enhance accessibility and flexibility by using Ally’s alternative format feature. This option allows instructors and students to download course content in a format that best suits their learning needs, such as audio, electronic braille, or tagged PDFs. 

How to access alternative formats

  1. Next to a file or page in Canvas, locate and select the Ally download icon (see fig. 1).

    Figure 1: Image of Ally's alternative format download icon. 
  2. Once selected, a menu box (see fig. 2) will appear listing the alternative format options available for that content. Using the radio buttons, select the preferred option. 

    Figure 2: Image of menu box displaying alternative format download options.
  3. After selecting an option, select download. The file will be saved to the respective user's computer files. 

What formats are supported by Ally?

Note: Students can download the instructor's original file from the alternative formats menu. 

Alternative formats may be provided for the following content types:

  • PDF files (custom encoded fonts are not supported)
  • Microsoft Word files
  • Microsoft PowerPoint files
  • OpenOffice/LibreOffice files
  • Uploaded HTML files
  • Content created in the Canvas Rich Content Editor, e.g.., Pages, Quizzes, Syllabus, Announcements, etc.

Based on the original file or content type, Ally may generate the following types of alternative formats:

  • OCR version (for scanned documents) - For scanned documents, this format uses Optical Character Recognition to convert image text into searchable and readable text for screen readers.
  • Tagged PDF (currently for Word, PowerPoint, and OpenOffice/LibreOffice files) - Creates a structured PDF that improves compatibility with screen readers and other assistive technologies
  • Mobile-friendly HTML - A responsive HTML version that is optimized for viewing and easy navigation on mobile devices and web browsers.
  • Audio - An MP3 file that allows students to listen to their learning materials, ideal for auditory learners or while multitasking.
  • ePub - An eBook format that can be downloaded and read on e-readers or mobile devices, supporting text and annotations.
  • Electronic Braille - A BRF (Braille Ready Format) file compatible with electronic braille displays and braille software.
  • BeeLine Reader - An enhanced format that adds color gradients to the text to help improve reading speed and focus.

 

Need more help with Ally? Contact the Academic Technology team for assistance.

 

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