Blackboard Ally
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ALLY is an innovative technology that enhances the accessibility of your Blackboard module content. It was introduced as part of a collaborative partnership between the Trinity Disability Service and IT Services to improve the accessibility of online content available to our student community, which includes the following features -
- Automatically checks academic content against WCAG 2.2 accessibility standards and provides step-by-step guidance to academics on how to improve the accessibility of the content if needed.
- Provides students with accessible alternative formats for any files you upload, which are compatible with your students' needs.
- Delivers step-by-step guidance to instructors to improve the accessibility of their module content.
Ally for Blackboard
Video: Explains how to use Ally in Blackboard Ultra
Frequently asked questions
Why should students use Ally?
For students enrolled in Blackboard modules, Blackboard Ally automatically provides a range of alternative formats that are easy to use by all students. Ally works within your modules in Blackboard, so it is available right when you need it. Alternative files include:
- Readable text for screen readers
- Pictures with captions
- Content that is easy to navigate
Blackboard Ally creates multiple formats from the original documents in your module. You can download these alternative formats anywhere. For further information on Blackboard Ally for students, visit the Blackboard Help website.
External links and additional resources covering accessibility in Blackboard
Blackboard Accessibility Help Pages
Collaborate Ultra Accessibility
TCD Creating Accessible Material
AHEAD is a non-profit organisation that works with educational institutions to create an accessible environment. They have created a minisite called ARK (Accessibility Resources and Know-How), which contains courses and general information on digital accessibility for educators.
If students or staff are experiencing issues accessing Blackboard or specific modules, please contact the Teaching & Learning IT team via the IT Service Desk by one of the following methods.
You can email the service desk at itservicedesk@tcd.ie. Please ensure you fill in the 'Subject' field with Ultra: when emailing.
Service desk opening hours are:
Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:00