Accessing Alternative Formats of Documents in myLesley (Blackboard Ally for Students)

Modified on Fri, Sep 2, 2022 at 10:10 AM

TABLE OF CONTENTS



What is Ally?

Ally is a tool within myLesley, which creates alternative files that are easier to for all students to use. Ally creates multiple alternative formats including readable text for screen readers, pictures with captions, and easy-to-navigate content. You can download these alternative formats anywhere that files are used.


For more information, view the Ally for Students video tutorial.




How do I access alternative formats in my course?

Ally automatically creates alternative formats of your course files based on the original file. Available alternative formats include:

  • OCR'd PDF: Makes scanned documents searchable, more readable, and accessible to users on a screen reader
  • Tagged PDF: Improves use with assistive technology
  • Audio: MP3 version for listening on a computer or mobile device
  • HTML: Mobile-friendly version for reading in browsers or mobile devices
  • Electronic Braille: BRF version for tactile reading on electronic braille displays, other braille reading devices, or within braille software
  • ePUB: For reading and annotating on mobile devices or e-book readers 
  • BeeLine Reader: Enhanced version for faster and more focused on-screen reading
  • Immersive Reader: Aids in reading comprehension and grammar skills.
  • Translated Version: This alternative format provides a machine-translated version of the original content into a total of 50 different languages. Supports PDF, Word, Powerpoint and HTML documents.


For more information and details about Ally alternative formats, go to the Alternative Formats support article


You may access alternative formats of your files by selecting the file you wish to access and clicking the Alternative Formats icon to the right of the file.


screenshot of alternative formats icon to the right of the file


Select a format and click Download.


select the accessible file format you want and click download


Your file will download. This may take several minutes.


For more information on alternative formats, including which format may be right for you, go to Ally Alternative Formats or view the Choose your Alternative Format tutorial video.




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