Canvas Start of Semester Tips
If you're uncertain about setting up your semester using Canvas, these steps are designed to assist you! Below, we provide various methods to help you be prepared at the start of each semester, ensuring a smoother and more efficient experience with Canvas.
If you have any questions, please open a TIDE Support ticket in iSite.
Organize Your Syllabus
The Syllabus tool within Canvas enables students to access a calendar displaying assignments, a course description, and information on grade weighting. Instructors have the option to utilize this tool instead of or alongside a traditional written syllabus, provided that all pertinent information is covered. The Canvas Community provides guidance on utilizing Canvas's Syllabus feature.
Edit Your Navigation Menu
Within a Canvas course, instructors have the flexibility to customize the left-hand menu, which contains essential tools like Modules, Grades, Announcements, and more. This menu serves as the primary navigation tool for students within the course.
To enhance student focus and streamline their activity, we recommend that instructors hide options that are not being utilized, particularly those that may divert students away from the course structure. Instructors should consider hiding the Pages and Files options from the students' view. It is advisable to keep options such as Home, Syllabus, Announcements, Modules, Grades, and People (if the course incorporates Groups) accessible. Canvas provides comprehensive instructions on rearranging the navigation menu through their navigation menu guide.
Update Assignment and Exam Dates
To update due dates efficiently, you can use a single page that encompasses all graded items in your course, such as Assignments, Discussions, and Quizzes. These items will be listed under the Title column on this page.
To access this feature:
- Navigate to your course on Canvas.
- Click on the "Assignments" link in the course navigation menu.
- Locate the options icon (three vertical dots) in the upper right-hand corner.
- Choose the "Edit Assignment Dates" option from the menu.
Canvas End of Semester Tips
If you're feeling unsure about how to wrap up your Canvas course for the end of the semester, we're here to help! The following steps have been carefully crafted to guide you through the process. We offer a range of methods to assist you in preparing your courses as the new semester begins, guaranteeing a seamless and productive experience with Canvas.