University of Arizona

When standard print is not usable by students, textbooks and other printed academic materials, such as syllabi and articles, can be converted to electronic text. This format allows students to access the information through text-to-speech software, Braille or large print.
 

There are several things that you, as an instructor, can do to help assure that all your students have your printed materials in a form that is usable for them:

  • Select and order your books early. 
  • You may be contacted by DRC if your order has not been received by the Bookstore by its priority date.
  • When you order books from publishers, ask if the materials are available in an accessible, electronic format.  Some instructors choose to only order books from publishers who will make alternative format textbooks available.
  • Prepare your course syllabus early.  Be sure to include dates and pages for required readings.
  • Assist in locating print materials for conversion.
  • Your student or Disability Resources may contact you for a copy of your book, syllabus or D2L materials in order to scan them and create electronic files that can be read with technology.
  • If you have a desk copy of the course textbook you would be willing to lend for taping or scanning, it will facilitate the conversion process.

 

Accessibility of D2L Materials:

Increasingly, students who use assistive technology to access course materials are frustrated with readings posted to D2L.  If you consistently post only accessible information to D2L, all students will have immediate access rather than needing to make special requests to DRC.  DRC has posted information on creating accessible pdf documents or contact us for consultation.

 

General Information:

Students are encouraged to request their textbooks in alternative formats as early as possible, often at the time of pre-registration. Requests for conversion of print material are generally made to Disability Resources, although some students research the availability of materials on their own. Ordering and converting printed materials, especially course textbooks, to alternative formats is a lengthy process.

 

Contact DRC at 626-9409 or drc-books@email.arizona.edu if you would like additional information about the accessibility of course materials.