Ally for Students
This articles explains to students how to access alternative formats of content within a Canvas course.
Ally is a tool embedded into your Canvas courses that gives you alternatives to download course files in a format that is best suited for how you like to learn. Alternate formats include readable text, pictures with captions, and audio files.
How to Access Alternative Formats
1. Within your Canvas modules or assignments, click on the file you want to view.
2. Click on the arrow to the right of the link to your file and choose “Alternative formats.”
3. Read the description of each option and choose the format you need.
Download the file in your preferred alternative format.
Watch a quick video
Alternative Format | Description | Use if |
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Audio | Reads the text out loud. May include descriptions for images. This is saved as an MP3. |
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BeeLine Reader | Has options for changing the color of text and background. |
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Electronic Braille | Creates a file that can be read on a refreshable Braille display, Braille reading devices, or Braille software. |
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ePub | Creates a format that is supported by mobile devices and e-readers. Works with Apple, Android, Windows, and Linux apps. |
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HTML | Uses tags, blockquotes, paragraphs, and headings to provide structure and is viewed in a browser that adapts to your device. Designed for onscreen viewing and interaction. |
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Immersive Reader | In a nutshell, Immersive Reader is an online alternative format that enhances the reading experience, increasing the readability of the content. |
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ORCed PDF | Creates a searchable text when the original content uploaded is a scannable PDF image. Helpful format if content is a scanned article or chapter. |
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Tagged PDF | Uses tags, blockquotes, paragraphs, and headings to provide content structure and for improved use with assistive technology |
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Translated Version |
Provides a machine-translated version of the original document in 50 different possible languages. Supports PDF, Word, PowerPoint, and HTML documents. |
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