[Athen] Alternative Format

[Robert Beach]

Hi Carol,

I'll insert my responses below.

<C>
I am wondering how you all distribute textbook files to students who use alternative formats? Do you still have them check out CD's for the term? Or do you allow them to have electronic access to the files (e-mail or FTP like sites)?

<R>
I've used a variety of methods, including:  CD, SD cards, flash drives, downloads from within our course management system (Angel), and even e-mail attachments.

<C>
 When I first starting working in my current position my manager was certain we had to stick with the CD check-out system. I am looking to see if this has changed.

<R>
I do not "check out" CDs to students.  When I give them the alternate format, I explain to them that they are entitled to the accessible copy as long as they have the print copy.  If they no longer have the print copy, then they should destroy the accessible copy.  We are not a library system so I do not have students bring their accessible copy back.

<C>
 What stops the students from moving the files to their computers?

<R>
Absolutely nothing, whether you use a CD check out system or any other system.  What keeps a student from taking a print book they have checked out from the library and making a scanned copy of it on their computer?  Absolutely nothing.  We cannot prevent that, but if we find out about it, we should take action to stop it.

<C>
Any thoughts on this would be helpful. I spend a lot of time making CD's and tracking their return! Will this trend change when Access Text opens their file sharing portal?

<R>
I cannot speak to ATN's policies, but I don't see that there is any reason to track the return of alternate formats.  Just my two cents worth.


Robert Lee Beach
Assistive Technology Specialist
Kansas City Kansas Community College
7250 State Avenue
Kansas City, KS  66112
Phone: 913-288-7671
Fax: 913-288-7678
E-Mail: rbeach at kckcc.edu

From: athen-bounces at athenpro.org [mailto:athen-bounces at athenpro.org] On Behalf Of Carol Raymundo
Sent: Tuesday, April 20, 2010 5:27 PM
To: 'Access Technology Higher Education Network'
Subject: [Athen] Alternative Format

I am wondering how you all distribute textbook files to students who use alternative formats? Do you still have them check out CD's for the term? Or do you allow them to have electronic access to the files (e-mail or FTP like sites)? When I first starting working in my current position my manager was certain we had to stick with the CD check-out system. I am looking to see if this has changed. What stops the students from moving the files to their computers?

Any thoughts on this would be helpful. I spend a lot of time making CD's and tracking their return! Will this trend change when Access Text opens their file sharing portal?






Carol Raymundo
Instructional Specialist with Assistive Technology
Linn-Benton Community College
Office of Disability Services
Phone: 541-917-4832
Fax: 541-917-4328

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