Alternate Media services provide access to course materials in formats that may better support your learning and engagement. This can include e鈥憈ext, audio, Braille, large print, or other alternative formats.
If traditional textbooks or printed materials are difficult to use or access, Alternate Media can help remove barriers and provide more flexible ways to interact with course content.
SAS counselors may recommend this accommodation and connect you with an Access Specialist, who will work with you to identify formats and processes that best support your needs.
Early planning can make a meaningful difference in how smoothly your semester begins with this accommodation:
- Choose your classes as early as possible
- Check wich textbooks and materials are required
- Send your Alternate Media requests to sas.access@miracosta.edu or use the as soon as book information becomes available.
Taking these proactive steps helps ensure materials are ready when you need them and reduces last-minute stress.
Once this accommodation has been authorized:
- Contact SAS to meet with the Access Specialist
- You will talk through your preferences and determine which format(s) will best support your access.
- The Access Specialist will also explain the process and your role in requesting and receiving materials.
- Submit your request
- Requests can be completed online through the or emailed to sas.access@miracosta.edu
- Or by scheduling an appointment if you prefer guided support. To schedule, please contact us at (760) 795-6658 or sas@miracosta.edu
- Requests may take up to 10 working days (Monday - Friday) to complete once approved.
- You are strongly encouraged to submit requests at least two weeks before classes begin, or as soon as materials are identified. If you would like to submit a request that does not allow for the material to be ready before classes start based on the timelines above, you are still eligible for alternate media.
- Standard requests made less than 2 weeks before the start of the semester will still be produced within the 10 working day window, but may not be finished before the start of classes.
- Specialized requests, such as Braille, have a longer turn-around time. Most Braille production requires at least a 4-week lead time. If at all possible, we request that Braille requests be made 6 weeks before classes start.
Planning ahead helps ensure your materials are available at the start of the semester whenever possible.
The Alternate Media process is collaborative and flexible. You can expect:
- Support in identifying formats that align with your learning preferences
- Ongoing communication from the Access Specialist about your requests
- Adjustments as needed based upon your experience using the materials
Your input matters! Feedback helps ensure the formats provided continue to meet your needs.
Your support helps create a predictable and inclusive environment where students can engage fully.
SAS will work directly with faculty as needed to support alternate media accommodations. This may include communication about:
- Textbook or course material requirements.
- Timelines needed to prepare accessible formats.
- Coordination when instructor-created materials require conversion or edits based upon the need for subject matter expertise (ex. alternate text for images).
Faculty can help create an accessible learning environment by:
- Sharing course materials as early as possible.
- Using clear, readable digital documents.
- Being responsive to communication from SAS regarding course materials.
If you have questions or receive a request related to alternate media, please contact the SAS counselor listed on the bottom of the student's accommodation form or reach out to SAS directly ay (760) 795-6658 or sas@miracosta.edu.
