Alternative Text
Alternative Text request here (Google Doc) to submit online
Alternative Text request (Fillable Form)-to print
Please send receipts to access@lclark.edu
If you have never met with someone in our office, do not use this form. To access alternative text accommodations, contact us for an intake appointment. Click here to schedule an appointment.
For more information contact:
Rebecca Brooks, MA – Associate Director
rbrooks@lclark.edu, x7190
Why do we need Alternative Text Resources?
Use of alternative text materials is key for the success of our students who may have different learning needs. These formats are often used by students who may be ineffectively able to use and read physical print materials, including those with low or no functional vision, blindness, ADHD, dyslexia or other disabilities that can impact reading ability. Students who typically use a screen reader often find a need for alternative text resources. If you access a screen reader, alternative text can be an option.
How to access Alternative Text through the Office of Student Accessibility?
- Students must have submitted the required disability documentation to the Office of Student Accessibility prior to the request. Please see Arranging for Accommodations for specific information about the process, availability, and options for undergraduate student accommodations at Lewis & Clark or use the navigation bar on the side to find what you are looking for.
- After purchasing textbooks please keep your receipt. The receipt will be necessary for helping obtain an accessible copy of the textbook from the publisher. Submit your receipt to Rebecca Brooks rbrooks@lclark.edu in the Office of Student Accessibility.
- You must meet with Rebecca Brooks prior to receiving books in an alternative text format. During this meeting Rebecca will discuss alternative text options, Kurzweil, and answer questions you may have regarding how our process works and to assist in helping obtain necessary academic materials. She can be reached at rbrooks@lclark.edu.
How to Access your Screen Reader
Mac OS - Apple provides a free voice over, screen reader option.Learn more about activating the voice over feature on your Mac computer.
Windows OS -NVDA is a free resource for Windows OS users on PC. Learn more about installing this free software onto your PC here.
Best Practices Guide for Faculty
In order to provide an equitable way for students to thrive and learn, alternative texts can provide benefits for students who may be blind, have low or no functional vision, and may need to use a screen reader to access the text. For example, screen reading software allows students to navigate text on websites, ebooks, online documents, and other academic materials through an auditory pathway.
Screen readers are not compatible with PDF and hard to use for a student with accessibility needs. Here are some resources that can help create more inclusive and equitable learning materials for students.