If you are in need of accessible materials not available through the instructor, please contact Learning Support Services and speak to a Program Specialist.
Obtaining alternative format textbooks and materials are provided as an accommodation if not already available.
WCC has Readspeaker built into Blackboard to provide text to speech for information contained in Blackboard. Readspeaker will not read linked material. Simply hit the Readspeaker icon to activate Readspeaker
Kurzweill 3000, a text to speech program, is available for enrolled WCC students. Contact Lauren Reed, DS Technology Specialist for demonstration, training and to request an account, [email protected].
Requesting Alternative Format Materials
Once you register for your course, or as soon as you know you need reading materials in an alternative format, contact DS to make the request to the Program Specialist (for new requests) or Assistive Technology Specialist for continuing students. Please provide: 1) a list of the books/readings to be converted, 2) the ISBNs of your books or location of readings, and 3) your preferred format (audio, PDF, RTF, etc.).
Verifying ownership of textbook/course reader
You can request alternative format materials with the proof of purchase provided to DS. You need to purchase your book in order to make a request.
General Time Frames
To be sure you have your alternative formal materials before the start of classes, submit your alternative format materials request during class registration or at least 4 weeks prior to the beginning of class. DS will make its best efforts to provide the material submitted by this time frame at least three days before the start of classes.
Braille and Specialized Text
Conversion for subjects such as math, chemistry, computer science, or foreign languages may take longer to convert given the extent of symbols and equations they contain. Requests for Braille may also take longer due to the amount of re-formatting necessary.
Appropriate Use of Alt Media
When you request alternative format materials you are agreeing to the following: Any materials provided to you by DS may not be copied or distributed in any manner that violates copyright law. For example if you sell the original hard copy version of a copyright protected text, you must promptly return the converted alternative media version to DS or self-delete your electronic version.