Blackboard Ally is an accessibility tool integrated into BlazeVIEW that helps create more inclusive learning experiences by improving the accessibility of course content. Ally automatically scans course materials, identifies potential accessibility issues, provides feedback to instructors for improving content, and offers students alternative formats that support different learning needs and preferences. Ally supports the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) by making course materials more flexible and accessible for all learners.

What Does Ally Do?

For Instructors 

Ally evaluates course files and content for accessibility and provides guidance for improving accessibility. The tool displays accessibility indicators next to course files and offers step-by-step instructions for resolving common issues such as:
  • Missing image descriptions (alt text)
  • Poor heading structure
  • Insufficient color contrast
  • Untagged PDFs
  • Scanned documents that are not screen-reader accessible
  • Missing document language settings

Ally also provides course-level accessibility reports to help instructors identify and prioritize improvements.

For Students 

Ally automatically generates alternative formats of course materials, allowing students to access content in ways that best support their learning preferences and accessibility needs. Students can download alternative formats directly from course content without needing to request accommodations.

Alternative Formats Available

Depending on the original file type, Ally may provide:

  • Audio (MP3)
  • Mobile-Friendly HTML
  • ePub
  • Electronic Braille
  • Tagged PDF
  • OCR PDF (for scanned documents)
  • Microsoft Immersive Reader
  • BeeLine Reader
  • Translated Versions (if enabled)

These formats are automatically created and are available alongside the original file.

Instructor Guidance and Resources

Watch this brief introductory video to learn how Ally supports accessibility in BlazeVIEW and helps create more inclusive learning experiences.

Helpful Resources:

Explore the Ally Instructor Resources to learn how to:

  • interpret accessibility scores 
  • improve course materials 
  • manage alternative formats 
  • use course accessibility reports

in order to identify and address common accessibility issues. Ally provides step-by-step guidance to help you make course content more accessible for all learners while supporting institutional accessibility goals. Visit the Ally webpage for LMS Instructor Resources to get started.

Student Guidance and Resources

Students can use Ally’s Alternative Formats feature to access course materials in the format that works best for their learning preferences and accessibility needs. Students can access alternative formats by selecting the Ally download icon next to supported course files within BlazeVIEW. Available formats will vary based on the original file type.

Watch this brief introductory video to learn how Ally’s alternative formats can help you access course materials in the format that best supports your learning needs and preferences.

Helpful Resources

Visit the Ally Alternative Formats Student Guide to learn about the different formats available, including audio, mobile-friendly HTML, ePub, electronic braille, and immersive reader options. You'll also learn how to access and download alternative formats directly in BlazeVIEW, helping you engage with course content in ways that support your learning, whether you're studying on the go, using assistive technology, or simply prefer a different format.