Alternative Formats: Empower Student Choice with Anthology Ally and Connect Formats to Learning Needs

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 14:00:53 -0400
accessibility, ally, alt-formats, alternative-formats, anthology-ally, biro, blackboard

In today's diverse college classrooms, providing students with options for how they engage with course materials is not just a convenience - it's a critical component of effective teaching. By proactively incorporating alternative formats that support diverse learning needs, we can create a more inclusive environment that fosters success for all students.

Leverage Ally's Alternative Formats

An effective tool for utilizing alternative formats is Anthology Ally, available in Blackboard, which automatically transforms course content into a variety of accessible formats. By using Ally, instructors can provide students with the power to choose the format that best suits their learning style, device, or situation.

Ally can generate alternative versions of PDFs, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint files, and even content created within the learning management system's editor. These alternative formats include:

Audio (MP3): Great for students who learn best by listening, or those who want to review content while commuting or performing other tasks.

Mobile-Friendly HTML and ePub: Perfect for students accessing content on a smartphone or tablet, as the text adapts to the screen size, eliminating the need to zoom in and out.

Immersive Reader and BeeLine Reader: These formats use features like color gradients and improved spacing to enhance focus and readability, which can be a game-changer for students with dyslexia, have other reading-related challenges, or want to reduce eye fatigue.

Three Ways to Integrate Ally into Your Course

1. Let Students Know This Option Exists

Many students are unaware of the alternative formats available to them. Make it a point to highlight this feature early and often.

Syllabus Statement: Include a brief section in your syllabus explaining what Ally is and how to access its features. Include a tutorial video or student guide.

Course Announcement: Post an announcement at the beginning of the term and periodically remind students about the options, especially before heavy reading weeks.

Point it Out: When uploading files, make a note in the description to draw attention to the Ally "A" icon, helping students make a visual connection to the tool.

2. Connect Formats to Learning Needs

In addition to pointing out Ally to your students, explain how different formats can support different learning styles. For example, suggest the audio format for auditory learners or highlight the HTML version for students who prefer to read on their phone. This helps students recognize how these options can benefit their preferred learning styles.

3. Encourage Students to Choose for Their Situation

Frame alternative formats as a flexible tool for everyone, not just for those with official accommodations. A student might choose to listen to an audio file while preparing dinner, or they might prefer a mobile-friendly version for reading on the bus. This approach helps destigmatize the use of accessibility features and reinforces the idea that learning is not a one-size-fits-all process.