Many students require their course materials (readings, assignments, Canvas, etc.) to be accessible. Accessible course materials can mean different things for different students, but generally speaking, accessible materials are materials that allow students of all abilities to effectively acquire and engage with the same information.
When approved for this specific accommodation, SAS will work with the student to determine what the student requires, and work with the instructor to help ensure materials are accessible. Often this involves helping convert materials to an accessible format (accessible digital copies, large print, braille), but specific steps may vary based on the individual student need.
Please note that this may also include accessible textbooks. Please see the page: Accessible Textbooks/Books and Long-Readings for more information about processes related to these types of materials.
Key Things to Know
- Early identification of required materials and alternate format requests are important in order to ensure timely receipt of materials.
- If a student requires accessible instruction materials, it should be assumed that these materials/formats will also be available for exams, quizzes, and assignments.
- The process for accessible textbooks can be found at: Accessible Textbooks/Books and Long-Readings
- Students may also use Assistive Technology (AT) to assist in accessing materials. If students are approved for use of AT, this will be indicated on the student's accommodation letter.
- Instructors that require support in creating accessible materials can contact SAS for assistance.
Student Responsibilities
Students are responsible for…
- Meeting all student accommodation responsibilities.
- Meeting with the SAS AT Specialist to discuss their specific needs
- Sharing their course schedule and any schedule changes with SAS as soon as possible
- Searching for accessible copies of textbooks to purchase.
- When assistance is needed in finding an accessible book,
- Signing the SAS Alt-Format Agreement.
- Notifying SAS through the Alt-Format Request Form.
- Providing proof of purchase of the material.
- Communicating with the instructor about their need for accessible materials.
- Sharing any concerns with SAS as soon as possible.
Common Questions
No. There is a common misconception that digital materials = accessible materials. While there are often many more accessibility options available within digital environments, materials must be specifically created in accessible ways to be access. For instance, a word document has the potential to be very accessible, but when created without things like headings and alternative text can be inaccessible to some students.
