Alternative Formats - Transform Files
To support accessible learning, the course accessibility checker (powered by UDOIT Advantage) provides Alternate Formats that allow you to download or generate different versions of course files directly in Canvas.
Student Access for UDOIT Advantage
Step 1: Locate the Alternate Formats Option
In your Canvas course, find a file link within a page, assignment, or other content. If Student Access has not been disabled by the instructor, you will see an Alternate Formats button next to the file. Select this button to view available options.
Step 2: View or Request a Format
After selecting the Alternate Formats button:
- If formats are already available, they will appear in a dropdown menu as downloadable options.
- If allowed, you can request additional formats by selecting your preferred option.
- If no formats are available and requests are not enabled, you will see a message indicating that no alternate formats are currently available.
Step 3: Download or Open the File
For each available format, you can download the file to your device or open it in a new browser tab. If you request a new format, it may take a few moments to process. Once created, it will be available for everyone in the course to use without additional wait time.
Troubleshooting
Not seeing the Alternate Formats button?The Alternate Formats feature is only available for uploaded files in Canvas. It is not available for Canvas-native content such as pages, assignments, or discussions. The feature must also be enabled in the course. While it is on by default, an instructor may disable it. If you do not see the button, contact your instructor to confirm that Student Access is enabled.
Not seeing the dropdown menu for a file?Newly added files may not display format options until the course has been re-scanned with UDOIT (Course Accessibility Checker). Instructors may need to run a scan after uploading files to make formats available.
Video Overview
Alternate Formats FAQ
Will the instructor know when someone has accessed or requested a format?Instructors are not notified when you access formats. However, generated files are stored in the course files area.
Where are alternate files stored?All generated formats are saved in the course Files area within a folder named Alternate Files.
Do I need to request a format if someone else already has?No. If a format has already been created by another user, it will appear in the list for you to use.
Is any student data collected?No student data is collected when using Alternate Formats.