ECU Canvas Semester Essentials

This guide was created by Training Services Department at Instructure and has been modified by the ECU Canvas support team.

Start of Semester

  • Cross-list Courses – Cross-listing allows you to merge & teach sections of the same course from one site.
  • Course Modules – Modules are the best way to organize/present content.
  • Add Content to Modules – Adding files, pages, assignments, discussions, & quizzes to modules.
  • Add Syllabus – Add the syllabus to your course.
    • Tip: Add it to the Course Syllabus tool, as a File link, on a Course Page, etc.
  • Customize Course Detail Settings – Be aware of options in Course Details.
    • Tip: Add it to the Course Syllabus tool, as a File link, on a Course Page, etc.
  • Simplify Course Navigation – Hide unused course navigation links.
    • Tip: Fewer links is better.
  • Publish Course and Content – Check visibility of files, pages and modules.
    • Tip: Unpublish content you don’t want students to view. Use Student View to verify content visibility
  • Choose Home Page – Select a Home Page that fits your course. The Home Page can be changed at any time.
    • Tip: Use visuals to engage students & incorporate important information.
  • Notification Preferences – To ensure you receive communication, set your Notification Preferences and contact method.
    • Tip: Remind & show students how to set their preferences.

End of Semester

  • Verify Grades (If Applicable) – Verify grades if Canvas is the gradebook of record. Changes will affect final grades.
    • Tip: Verify that the Gradebook matches the grading policy.
    • Tip: Turn missing entries to zeros through the late policy options.
    • Tip: Check out more about Assignment Groups if using weighted grading categories.

More Resources

Learning Technologies Implementation & Support
Updated: 8/20/2021