Ally creates alternative formats of the original content instructors add to their courses. These formats are made available in conjunction with the original file so everything is in one convenient location. Alt formats are generated automatically, there are no additional step required.
The alternative formats created depend on the original content. If you don't see an option to download alternative formats, Ally isn’t enabled for that course or the file is not a supported content type.
Alternative formats aren't just for a select group of students. Alternative formats can benefit everyone!
Download an Alternative Format on Blackboard Ultra
- Select the Download Alternative Formats icon located with any eligible alt format content
- Select the version that is best for your needs
- Open the downloaded file
Alternative Formats Available
- Electronic Braille
- Audio
- Immersive Reader
- PDF, OCR
- Tagged PDF
- HTML, Semantic
- ePub
- Translated Version
- BeeLine Reader
Uses for Alternative Formats
| Use Case |
Electronic Braille |
Audio |
Immersive Reader |
PDF, OCR |
PDF, Tagged |
HTML Semantic |
ePub |
Translated Version |
Bee Line Reader |
| Adjust text, font, background color |
|
|
X |
|
|
X |
X |
|
|
| Audio file/Audio Playback speed |
|
X |
X |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Commuting Ease (Limited Screen Mobility) |
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
X |
X |
X |
| Commuting/Driving (while enroute) |
|
X |
X |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Copy, Paste, and Search Features |
|
|
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
| Responsive Format(s) to adapt to specific devices |
|
|
|
|
|
X |
X |
|
X |
| Highlight, Note Taking, and Bookmarking Abilities |
|
|
|
X |
X |
|
X |
|
|
| Mobile Device Compatibility |
|
X |
|
|
|
X |
X |
|
X |
| Fully Offline Learner (those who have visual impairments) |
X |
X |
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| Prefer Listening to Learn |
|
X |
X |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Prefer Reading to Learn |
X |
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| Print Friendly |
X |
|
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
| Text to Speech with Speed Adjustment |
|
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
|
| Language Translation |
|
|
X |
|
|
|
|
X |
|