Alternate Media/Assistive Technology: A Brief Guide

The Accessibility Support Center (ASC) offers a range of alternative media formats and tools to support students' learning needs, such as PDFs, MP3s, Kurzweil files, Learning Ally audiobooks, and more. These formats ensure students can engage with course materials in the way that best meets their individual requirements, whether through text-to-speech, audio, or visual support.

Alternative Media Formats and Tools for Accessible Learning

Compact Disc (CD):
A CD is a storage disc that can hold music, sound files, pictures, or text. Not all CDs contain music, and some may not play in standard CD players.

Electronic Text (E-text):
E-text refers to text generated on a computer that can be copied into a word processing or Text-to-Speech (TTS) program.

Text-to-Speech (TTS):
TTS software reads computer-generated text aloud using a digital voice. Programs like Claro, Balabolka, TextAloud, and Kurzweil offer TTS functionality. Some are free, while others are paid. To use TTS, the software must be installed on a computer or iPad

Speech to Text (STT):

Speech to Text (STT) software converts spoken words into written text, allowing users to dictate instead of typing. It’s helpful for individuals with physical or cognitive challenges. Programs like Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Google Voice Typing, and Microsoft Edge’s Read Aloud feature offer this functionality.

Optical Character Recognition (OCR):
OCR is the process of converting images or scanned documents into editable text.

PDF files (.pdf):

Students at Cabrillo ASC often use PDFs on iPads or tablets, as these files replicate the layout and appearance of physical pages. Most PDFs include accessible text, allowing students to copy and paste content into Text-to-Speech (TTS) readers. Additionally, newer versions of Adobe Reader provide a "Read Aloud" feature, which can be activated through the "View" menu.

Microsoft Word Files (.docx):

Microsoft Word files are word processing documents designed to be used with computers that have MS Word software installed. These files may sometimes be incompatible with certain computers or devices that do not support the software.

Rich Text Format (.rtf):

Rich Text Format (RTF) files are versatile word processing documents designed to work universally. These files are compatible with most computers and can be opened and edited across different operating systems and software programs.

MP3 files (.mp3):

MP3 files are audio-only and can be difficult to navigate. While not ideal for subjects like physical sciences, they work well for novels. These files take longer to process than e-text. Students can create MP3s using TTS tools like Claro, Balabolka, TextAloud, and Kurzweil.

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Learning Ally Audiobook (audio only):

Learning Ally offers audio-only content, available for download to computers, smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Students must register with the Alt Media Specialist after receiving accommodations. While it provides professionally narrated audiobooks, not all titles are available. Students seeking high-quality audiobooks should consider membership.

Tactile Graphics:

Tactile graphics are essential for students with vision impairments, helping them understand visual content like diagrams, charts, and maps. By converting visual information into raised, touchable representations, tactile graphics allow students to explore and comprehend subjects such as math, science, and geography.

Braille:

Braille is a vital tool for students with visual impairments, enabling access to education through raised dots representing letters and symbols. It has evolved with technology, integrating with electronic displays and assistive devices. Documents are transcribed into Braille using software and embossed with a specialized printer.

Kurzweil (.kes):

Kurzweil files offer both text and audio, with word highlighting and study aids for visual reinforcement. This format, widely used by ASC students, supports study skills and can read both books and class PDFs. To use, students need Kurzweil software installed and can generate MP3 audio files. Contact the Alt Media Specialist for more details.

Livescribe Echo SmartPen II (note taking tool)

The Livescribe SmartPen combines audio and notes, making it a powerful tool for note-taking, memory retention, and study skills. It records everything you hear, say, and write, linking audio to your notes while capturing handwriting with an IR camera and micro-dot paper. Ideal for classroom use, it stores 200–400 hours of audio or thousands of pages of notes.

For any questions or assistance regarding alternative media formats, please contact Bianca Hernández, the Alternate Media Specialist, email: bihernan@cabrillo.edu. Who can provide guidance and support for all inquiries related to alternate media and assistive technology at the Accessibility Support Center.