It is possible to view resources on Canvas in alternative formats thanks to a tool called Ally. Ally is a tool to aid making digital course content more accessible. It achieves this by providing automatic conversion options, allowing you to download resources from Canvas in alternative formats.

Ally automatically generates “Alternative Formats” of course content and makes them available for you to download. This feature enables you to choose the format that works most effectively for your learning needs, devices, and schedule. Select the “A” icon ( ) or anywhere you see “Alternative Formats” in your course to open the pop-up (pictured below).

The converted file may take a few minutes to download. Remember, the quality of the alternative formats can depend on the original, so check the original file if something doesn’t look right.

Four Learning Benefits of Alternative Formats

Find a Higher Quality Alternative
The readability of your course materials can affect your comprehension and study practices. If you notice the original course file is a scanned PDF that you can’t highlight, copy-paste, or keyword search, try the OCRed PDF for an editable, easier to read document. Or if the font of the original is hard to read, try the ePub format to customise the font and contrast.
Enhance your Understanding
Did you know when you engage different senses – like reading a text and listening to a text – that you activate different parts of the brain, which can enhance your understanding? Try reading the Tagged PDF first and then listening to the Audio MP3 for review. Or, if you are struggling to understand the text, you might try listening and reading at the same time.
Improve your Time Management
With your busy schedule, maximising your time on task and study opportunities can help you reach your learning goals. If you’re reading on your mobile, try the HTML format for a file that’s responsive to your screen size so that you can read faster and with less distractions. Or listen to the Audio MP3 when you’re on the go for extra time reviewing your materials.
Become a Better Learner
Think about the best format for your learning context and objective, and include multiple formats in your study process. Keep a record of the formats you use leading up to an exam to discover how you learn best.

Visit this page for more in-depth information on the alternative formats available.

This guide to using Alternative Formats in Canvas is a derivative of "Four Learning Benefits of Alternative Formats" by Blackboard, used under CC BY. This guide is licensed under CC BY by the Centre for Teaching and Learning.