Introduction To Alternate Media
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Students who cannot access standard print (i.e., students who are blind/low vision, have learning disabilities, etc.) may need their textbooks and other course materials provided in an alternate media format. Supportive Service & Instruction (SSI) provides alternate media services for students with documented print-related disabilities upon referral from a SSI Counselor. Students with print-related disabilities are encouraged to discuss alternate media options with their SSI Counselor.
A few common examples of alternate media are as follows:

• Audio Files: Sound recording of books. Text-to-speech technology allows conversion of text into audio formats, such as MP3. Audio is recommended for textbooks without pictures, charts, and graphs (i.e. novels versus science and math textbooks).
  
  
• Kurzweil: Kurzweil format provides an image of the textbook, which is presented on the computer screen.  It is then read back to the student, providing both auditory and visual output. Kurzweil is the suggested option for textbooks with pictures, charts, and graphs because it maintains the physical layout of each page.
  
  
• E-Text: E-text is a data file that can be accessed by a word processor (i.e. an MS Word file is e-text) or text-to-speech software. E-text is also the basis for generating many other forms of alternative media.
  
  
• Large Print: Printed text that has been enlarged to at least 14 point font size.
  
  
• Braille: Letters and numbers are represented by raised dots that provide tactile input.

Guidelines for Ordering Alternate Media
Ordering Alternate Media
Using Alternate Media

Source: Sonoma State University