Digital accessibility ensures that everyone can effectively use digital content and technologies. And in today’s higher education landscape, digital materials are a cornerstone of the learning experience. By focusing on digital accessibility, we don't just support students with specific needs — we enhance the overall quality of our courses and learning for all students.
As we step into the new academic year, Academic Technology & Innovation is excited to introduce a new digital accessibility tool: YuJa Panorama.
For Starters
- Panorama replaces the Blackboard Ally accessibility tool in the Canvas learning management system, beginning July 1, 2024.
- If after reading this article you need additional support sooner, please select “Request Service”, select “Academic Technology Accessibility (Canvas, YuJa Panorama, other)” and share your question or need.
Getting Started
Panorama offers the same functionality as Ally – but with even more features including more alternative file formats, putting you in even more control of your own learning.
- Anywhere you see this icon next to a file in Canvas, it means you have access to a range of alternative formats for that file, which may help enhance your learning experience.
- Click on this icon to access the Alternative Files menu.
- From the list, select the alternative format that fits your individual needs and follow the on screen prompts to download the converted file.
- There is no step 4!
In addition to the Panorama icon you will see next to files, you will also find a new course menu item in your Canvas courses titled Panorama Accessibility Assistant.
From this menu you can access user settings for your experience in Canvas. This menu will also serve as your access to additional Panorama features and functionality later this year.
Alternative formats may not be available for all courses, as their availability can depend on the specific requirements of each course.