Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Teaching and Learning Resource Center

Using Alternative Formats for Students

Ally generates alternative formats for course content that suit the needs of different students. Whether you prefer to listen to course readings during your commute or rely on screen-reader technology for scanned materials, Ally provides options. 

What is an alternative format? 

Ally creates alternative formats for your course content based on the instructor’s original uploaded files. These formats are made available along with the original content, so you can find everything in one convenient location.  

You can download the alternative formats anywhere you see the Ally accessibility tool's alternative formats download icon. Just choose the version of the original that works best for your needs. 

Ally Alternative Formats button next to item in CarmenCanvas

Alternative Formats pull-down menu for Ally under Preview tab

The Ally Alternative Formats button next to file name in CarmenCanvas

Which alternative formats are created depends on the original content. If you can't find an option to download alternative formats, the file is not a supported content type.  If you can open the alternative formats menu but don’t see the option you expect, the file may be incompatible with that format. 

Select the Download Alternative Formats button to download the content in a different format. Choose the version that is best for your needs! 

Ally Alternative Formats options list, showing different formats that are available to download.

  

Navigate Alternative Formats 

Where will you access your alternate format? When selected, the alternative formats link opens the Download alternative formats dialog with these options: 

  • Tagged PDF: Downloads to device 
  • HTML: Opens in a new browser window 
  • ePub: Downloads to device 
  • Electronic braille: Downloads to device 
  • Audio: Downloads to device 
  • BeeLine Reader: Opens in the browser window 

Need help choosing? More on alternative formats. 

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