At her laptop

Ally


Find out more about Ally - a way to view alternative formats

Ally-ssWelcome to Ally, a new way to view alternative formats on Moodle. Ally is a new Moodle-based service that offers flexibility and choice to students by transforming course content into a range of alternative formats. These formats aim to meet the diverse learning needs, busy schedules and multiple devices of our students. It gives you the the option to choose the best way to learn and digest information. Find out more about Ally below.

What does Ally do?

Ally provides students with Moodle course content in downloadable, portable alternative formats, to increase accessibility and provide choice. Ally also provides guidance to teaching and professional services staff on how to improve accessibility of their Moodle course content, making it easier for students to understand and learn.

How does it benefit me?

There are a number of benefits to using Ally. By accessing information in alternative formats, you will be able to chose a format that suits your needs. For example, you may find it beneficial to listen to audio whilst reading a text, Ally gives you that option. 

Ally can also help with time-management; accessing audio files allows you to digest your learning material whilst on the go, for example during your commute to campus. 

You can also learn what format works best for you and reflect on your study practices. 

 Introduction to alternative formats

Watch this short video to find out more about alternative formats. You can also view the alternative formats provided by Ally, and their benefits to students, including examples created on-demand, from this Word document.

Format / description Advantages
Tagged PDF
Structured PDF for improved use with assistive technology
Improved structure for navigation
Essential for screen readers
HTML
For viewing in the browser and on mobile devices
Adapts content such as PDFs and PowerPoints to mobile screen sizes
Personalise content: font, size, colour, contrast
ePub
For reading as an e-book on an iPad and other e-book readers

Annotate, bookmark & highlight text
Personalise font, size and contrast

Electronic Braille
BRF version for consumption on electronic braille displays
Read more quickly
Essential for visual impairments
Audio
MP3 version for listening (< 100,000 characters)
Listen and learn anywhere
Engage different modalities
BeeLine Reader
Enhanced version for easier and faster on-screen reading
Read more effectively and maintain focus
Adds an eye-guiding color gradient to guide readers' eyes through long blocks of text

 Getting help with Ally

We will continue to add to this list as we develop our experience of using Ally. 

Who should I contact if I need help with Ally?

Please contact our E-Learning team (e-learning@royalholloway.ac.uk) to request advice and assistance with Ally.

Are there any training videos I can watch?

Yes, our E-Learning team has created a YouTube playlist of short videos. You can watch the videos below:

Are there any limitations?

Through the testing process we have found that the quality of the alternative formats can depend on the original file.