E-books

A key to greater accessibility

Abstract

Macquarie University Accessibility Services (MQAS) converts learning materials into accessible formats for students with access needs. The process is time and labour intensive and with unrealistic timelines can result in materials being delivered late. If learning materials were initially published directly in an accessible format, resources would be saved and students would receive their learning materials on time.  The emergence of the e-book allows students easier and faster access to content with choice and control over its delivery mode. When content is published directly as an e-book in ePub format, it can be read on a number of e- readers. Additionally, students using an iPad can change the font style and size to suit their needs or listen to content using iOS's built in text-to-speech software. An academic's new book, Foundations of College Music Theory was published straight to this format, allowing students faster access to their learning materials and the ability to listen to them.