Formats and Software

Electronic Formats

There are several electronic formats--usually called "e-text"--that you will receive. Here are a few of the most common:

PDF (Adobe Portable Document Format)
This is the most common format sent by textbook publishers. The advantage of this format is that it retains the look of the book and typically includes pictures. This is an excellent format for students who do not have major vision impairments because it looks like the book.

Microsoft Word
This is a text format sometimes used by publishers. If the alternate media office scans your book, we may also give you Microsoft Word.

DAISY (e-text from Bookshare.org)
Bookshare.org is an organization that we work with. DAISY files from Bookshare are in text format and have good navigation. You can get your own account at Bookshare.org.

DAISY (audio books from LearningAlly)
LearningAlly--formerly known as RFBD--is another organization that we work with. LearningAlly files are in audio format. You can get your own account at LearningAlly.org.

 

Software

We have many software programs in the Accessible Computer Laboratories on the Ocean Campus and John Adams Center that will play these files. In addition there is a smaller selection of software at the Rosenberg Library on the Ocean campus and at the Mission campus library. Ask a DSPS staff or faculty member for assistance in choosing the right program for you.

Suggested software in the Accessible Computer Labs

For PDF files for students with learning disabilities or minor vision impairments:
Kurzweil 3000 or OpenBook.

For PDF files for students with major vision impairments:
Kurzweil 1000.

Microsoft Word files for students with learning disabilities or minor vision impairments:
Kurzweil 3000.

Microsoft Word files for students with vision impairments:
Kurzweil 1000, Zoomtext, JAWS.

DAISY files from LearningAlly or Bookshare for students with learning disabilities or minor vision impairments:
Check with the instructor.

DAISY files for students with major vision impairments:
JAWS.
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