E-Text What is it and how is it done?
E-text has the broad meaning of something electronic that represents words and text. E-text represents a binary or digital version of a published work, and is a process performed manually with assistance of specialized computers and software. E-text has generally been used to describe ASCII versions of books or publications, but e-text has evolved to incorporate a wide variety of digital formats include mp3 and wav and older technologies like digital audio tape. The purpose for e-text within Accessibility Services is to provide alternative text formats for students with special needs at the University of New Mexico, and is a major component of the services provided to students registered with the department.The production of e-text is an integral part of the accommodation services. It involves the conversion of textbooks, syllabi, articles and publications into those formats needed by individual students to successfully complete their coursework at the University. Availability of textbooks in electronic format from the publishers is limited, forcing departments providing special services to students to develop their own methods to provide these materials to students who need them..
The process begins when a student registers with Accessibility Services, provides a syllabus from their classes and proof of book purchase to the department. Conversion is completed based on the type of text available, student needs, and course requirements. E-Text is then provided as pdf, rtf, ASCII text, mp3 or wav audio files may also be provided. This entire process is extremely time intensive and requires substantial individual attention to provide quality alternate versions of classroom materials in a timely manner. Providing e-text versions of classroom materials is a primary function of most departments providing services to students with special needs.
