Canvas LMS Implementation
Overview:
The Canvas LMS Implementation Project aims to enable Virginia State University's smooth switch to Instructure Canvas from Blackboard Learn. In addition to switching to a more user-friendly and capable learning management system, we see this change as an opportunity to engage the campus community in insightful discussions about how an LMS can advance online, face-to-face, and hybrid teaching objectives, increase learning activities, enhance assessment techniques, and foster collaborations. We believe Canvas will encourage educational innovations on campus and make it easier for teachers and students to interact both within and outside the classroom.
VSU’s Distance Learning Office is leading this initiative with collaboration from the Office of Information Technology and other organizations.
Why Canvas?
- User-Friendly Interface: Canvas is known for its intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible to students and instructors.
- Mobile Accessibility: Canvas offers mobile apps that allow students to access course materials and participate in discussions from their smartphones and tablets, enhancing flexibility and accessibility.
- Integration with Third-Party Tools: Canvas often offers seamless integration with various third-party tools, allowing instructors to incorporate additional resources and applications into their courses.
- Collaboration and Communication: Canvas includes discussion boards, group workspaces, and messaging systems, facilitating communication and collaboration among students and instructors.
Transition from Blackboard to Canvas
The transition from Blackboard to Canvas aims to ensure a smooth migration with minimal disruptions to teaching and learning processes. The transition has begun, and it will take place over the next several months. • During the transition period, Blackboard and Canvas will be operating simultaneously.
To facilitate the migration, there is an automated data transfer service in place. This service will assist in transferring course materials and content from Blackboard to Canvas. It's crucial to ensure that this transfer is seamless to minimize any disruptions in teaching.
Transitioning to a new LMS can be a significant change for both instructors and students. To support this shift, multiple training options are being offered. These may include in-person sessions, virtual training, one-on-one support, and group training sessions.
