Modules, Content, and Discussion

Using Modules

The Modules Tool is the easy way to organize your content by theme, unit, topic, week, etc. The best way to use Modules is to put Pages, Assignments, Files, Discussions, and Quizzes into their respective Module (in the order you would like your students to review them) so your students have one place to look for everything they need. This reduces the "where do I find..." questions throughout the semester. This course is organized in Modules by topic. Disabling (hiding) the left side navigation options for Pages, Assignments, Files, Discussions, etc. reduces confusion - we don't want students to focus on the course mechanics. Use Settings>Navigation>disable items to hide navigation items.

Canvas Tip: Instead of adding a file by direct upload to a Module you should instead add it onto a Page or in the Assignment instructions. This will make it easier for students to find the file (and give you an opportunity to explain the reasoning behind the file - what is it for, why is it being used, and why is it important).

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Canvas Guide for Modules

Creating Pages

Pages (aka Wiki Pages and Content Pages) are where you put your content and other materials using the Rich Content Editor. The page you are reading right now is a page from the Canvas Pages Tool.

When creating content pages, the built-in formatting including headings, bulleted lists, and numbered lists must be used for the page to be accessible to screen readers. For more information on making your pages accessible see the module on Improving Accessibility in Your Course.

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Canvas Guide for Pages

Using the Rich Content Editor

The rich content editor is available almost everywhere in Canvas where you would enter text. You can use the rich content editor to format text, insert images or videos, and link to other sites.

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Canvas Guides on using the Rich Content Editor

Using Discussions

Discussions in Canvas can be opened to the entire class or restricted to student groups. To set up groups for small group discussion you use the "+Groups" button in the People Tool. (There is also a video about setting up and managing groups.)

Canvas Tip: Always click the "Allow Threaded Replies" checkbox when creating a discussion.

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Canvas Guide on Discussions