Did you know a built-in tool in Canvas will export files and convert them to different formats? For example, you can export a Word document to an MP3 and listen to it!

This tool is called Ally and it's built in to every Canvas course. Depending on the file type your instructor uploads to Canvas, Ally can convert those files into different formats.

Ally is easy to use. Hover over any file in Canvas and look for the downward-facing arrow. Then, choose Alternative formats to see a list of the formats available.

Screenshot of the alternative files dialog box in Canvas.

Watch the following short video to see alternative formats in action!

What kinds of alternative formats are available?

Below are four Ally alternative formats that we recommend exploring. We have included information from Ally’s website about what each format does and why you might use it.

Audio

The Audio alternative format provides an MP3 version of the content for listening.

Audio may be a good option for you if:

You prefer listening rather than reading.
You experience low vision.
You read on your commute.
You want to read and listen to the content at the same time.

BeeLine Reader

BeeLine Reader makes reading on screen easier and faster. Instead of using plain black text, BeeLine Reader displays text using a subtle color gradient that helps pull your eye through your readings.

BeeLine Reader may be a good option for you if:

You read a lot on screen and wish you could read more easily and quickly.
You have a lot of material to read and find your eyes get tired.
You read late at night, when your eyes are tired.
You experience dyslexia, ADHD, or low vision.

OCR PDF and Tagged PDF

The OCR PDF alternative format is created when the original content is a PDF of an image. OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology converts the image into searchable text. The Tagged PDF alternative format uses tags and elements such as headings to add meaning to a page. It aids screen reader users with good content structure.

OCR PDF and Tagged PDF may be good options for you if:

You want to be able to copy, paste, and search text.
You want to use text-to-speech and adjust the speed of the speech.
You read on your commute.
You use a screen reader.

Note: Depending on the original file, some alternative formats may not be available, or there may not be an option to download alternative formats.

References and Additional Resources

The descriptions of these alternative formats were taken from Ally’s Alternative Formats page, where you can find more information about all of the available alternative formats as well as a helpful table that shows the best formats for different needs.
Learn more about how Ally in Canvas benefits the Chapman community.

To learn more about Ally at Chapman University, visit our Ally Information Page!