What is Canvas?

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The decision to use Canvas,  software provided by Instructure Links to an external site., is the result of a process that began with the 2016 Digital Education Strategy implementation consultation, which identified the need for a more intuitive and user-friendly Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Following a rigorous selection process, Canvas was identified as the solution which would provide the best quality of user experience to support teaching and learning at Oxford.

This short video gives an overview of some of they key features available to use in Canvas.

 

Canvas is a modern, flexible system which incorporates a wide variety of tools to support teaching and learning. There are also two mobile apps for Canvas; Canvas Teacher for teachers and Canvas Student for students. 

 

Typical scenarios where Canvas might be used to support teaching include:

• Hosting numerous external learning tools (LTIs - Learning Tools Interoperability) such as Panopto, Cabinet and ORLO, to enhance the learning experience.
• Acting as an dynamic repository for lecture materials, e.g. releasing materials only after a certain date.
• Setting formative assessments, such as essays, quizzes, and even group discussions. 
• Sending feedback to students (individually or collectively) via text, audio and video.
• Communicating with students via messages, forums, groups and discussions.
• Specifying important dates and reminders on a drag-and-drop calendar, e.g. assignment due dates. 

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