Alternative Approaches to Alternative Formats – Changing Expectations by Challenging Myths

Abstract

Traditional textbooks can be difficult for print impaired learners to access. Every organisation has its own approach to providing alternative formats but there are common myths that need to be dispelled: the myth of responsibility, that alternative formats should be provided by disability support staff; the myth of specialism, that disabled students should be dealt with by a small team of specialist staff; and the myth that e-books are automatically accessible. This paper suggests a move beyond alternative formats to looking at alternative approaches to meeting the needs of print impaired students.