Allowing students, faculty, and staff to convert documents into a range of alternative formats including Braille, mp3, Daisy, and e-books for the visually and reading impaired. This service can also be used to convert inaccessible formats such as image PDFs to accessible formats.

Getting Started

Start Using SensusAccess 

Users can upload files through the web interface and select from a variety of output options including audio, Braille, or e-text formats. A converted file is emailed back to the user. The ucsc.edu email is required.

Canvas

Canvas integration to convert documents is through courses. Conversion of documents is possible when Files and SensusAccess are made visible in the course navigation. Converted files can be downloaded or emailed. The user will need to authorize SensusAccess one time.

Follow these steps to convert documents in Canvas using SensusAccess.

Guidelines

• Poor quality readings (marked up, very grainy, scanned crooked), will most likely result in poor quality conversions. 
• Make sure the file you wish to convert is saved on your computer prior to uploading into SensusAccess.
  Conversion generally takes 15-20 minutes, depending on file size and quality. 
• Languages supported by SensusAccess are represented by the country flags included in the document conversion box below.

Support

• When using the web form, the vendor provides 24x7 support. Consult the SensusAccess Support page for instructions on how to contact them for assistance. 
• When using the SensusAccess through Canvas, open an ITS Support Ticket, or call 459-HELP (4357), or email help@ucsc.edu. 
• For more information and troubleshooting help, please consult the Sensus Access Question and Answer page.

Training

Video: Using SensusAccess and Adobe Acrobat to create accessible PDFs.

The SensusAccess e-learning course is intended for students, staff, faculty, and others who are converting material into alternate formats such as audiobooks, e-books, digital large-print, and Braille. The course also covers how SensusAccess can be used to improve the accessibility of documents.

Conditions of Use

When using this service, the user agrees to the Terms of Use. 

Before using the service for any confidential or private documents, users are encouraged to consult the SensusAccess privacy notice.

The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of the copyrighted material. The person using this equipment is liable for any infringement.

The SensusAccess service does not replace accommodations provided for students by the Disability Resource Center or for employees through the Disability Coordinator, Kelly Roberts (831-566-3023), or for faculty may request assistance from the Accessibility Corps in remediating course materials.