Eastern Washington University's (EWU) learning management system, Canvas, is a powerful tool designed to facilitate easy navigation and enhance the overall learning experience for students. To get the most out of Canvas, it's essential to understand its features and functionalities. In this article, we'll provide 12 Canvas EWU tips for easy navigation, helping you to maximize your productivity and streamline your academic workflow.
Introduction to Canvas EWU
Canvas EWU is a web-based platform that allows students to access course materials, submit assignments, participate in discussions, and track their grades. The system is user-friendly, but it can be overwhelming for new users. With these tips, you’ll be able to navigate Canvas EWU with ease and make the most out of its features.
Tip 1: Customize Your Dashboard
Your Canvas dashboard is the first thing you see when you log in. To customize it, click on the “Courses” tab and select the courses you want to display on your dashboard. You can also add favorite courses or remove unused ones to declutter your dashboard. Customizing your dashboard will help you quickly access the courses you need, saving you time and reducing stress.
Tip 2: Use the Global Navigation Menu
The global navigation menu is located at the top of the Canvas page and provides access to various features, including courses, groups, and account settings. To use the global navigation menu, click on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) and select the feature you want to access. The global navigation menu is a convenient way to navigate Canvas, and it’s essential to understand its functionality.
Tip 3: Set Up Your Profile
Setting up your profile is crucial in Canvas EWU. To do this, click on the “Account” tab and select “Settings.” Then, fill out your profile information, including your name, email address, and profile picture. A complete profile will help your instructors and peers identify you in the system. Setting up your profile is a simple process that will make it easier for you to connect with others in the Canvas community.
Tip 4: Use the Course Navigation Menu
Each course in Canvas has its own navigation menu, which provides access to course materials, assignments, and discussions. To use the course navigation menu, click on the course title and select the feature you want to access. The course navigation menu is a vital tool for navigating course content, and it’s essential to understand its functionality.
Tip 5: Organize Your Courses
Canvas allows you to organize your courses into favorites, which makes it easier to access the courses you need quickly. To organize your courses, click on the “Courses” tab and select the “All Courses” option. Then, click on the star icon next to the course title to add it to your favorites. Organizing your courses will help you stay focused and ensure that you’re accessing the right course materials.
Tip 6: Use the To-Do List
The to-do list is a feature in Canvas that helps you stay on top of upcoming assignments and deadlines. To access the to-do list, click on the “To-Do” tab on your dashboard. The to-do list will show you all the assignments and tasks that are due soon, helping you stay organized and focused.
Tip 7: Check Your Grades
Canvas allows you to track your grades and progress in each course. To check your grades, click on the “Grades” tab in the course navigation menu. The grades page will show you your current grade, as well as any assignments or quizzes that are still pending. Checking your grades regularly will help you stay on top of your academic performance and identify areas where you need to improve.
Tip 8: Participate in Discussions
Discussions are an essential part of the learning experience in Canvas. To participate in discussions, click on the “Discussions” tab in the course navigation menu. Then, select the discussion topic you want to participate in and click on the “Reply” button to post your response. Participating in discussions will help you engage with your peers and instructors, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Tip 9: Submit Assignments
Canvas allows you to submit assignments online, which makes it easier to turn in your work on time. To submit an assignment, click on the “Assignments” tab in the course navigation menu. Then, select the assignment you want to submit and click on the “Submit Assignment” button. Submitting assignments online will help you stay organized and ensure that you’re turning in your work on time.
Tip 10: Use Canvas on Your Mobile Device
Canvas has a mobile app that allows you to access your courses and assignments on-the-go. To use Canvas on your mobile device, download the Canvas app from the App Store or Google Play. Then, log in to your account and access your courses and assignments. Using Canvas on your mobile device will help you stay connected to your courses, even when you’re not on campus.
Tip 11: Get Help When You Need It
Canvas provides various resources to help you succeed, including online tutorials, user guides, and technical support. To get help, click on the “Help” tab on your dashboard. The help page will provide you with access to various resources, including the Canvas community forum and technical support contact information. Getting help when you need it will help you overcome any challenges you may encounter in Canvas.
Tip 12: Stay Up-to-Date with Canvas Updates
Canvas regularly releases updates and new features, which can enhance your learning experience. To stay up-to-date with Canvas updates, click on the “What’s New” tab on your dashboard. The what’s new page will provide you with information about new features, updates, and bug fixes. Staying up-to-date with Canvas updates will help you take advantage of new features and improvements, making your learning experience more efficient and effective.
| Canvas Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dashboard | Customizable homepage that displays your courses and assignments |
| Global Navigation Menu | Menu that provides access to various features, including courses, groups, and account settings |
| Course Navigation Menu | Menu that provides access to course materials, assignments, and discussions |
| To-Do List | Feature that helps you stay on top of upcoming assignments and deadlines |
| Grades | Feature that allows you to track your grades and progress in each course |
How do I access my courses in Canvas?
+To access your courses in Canvas, click on the “Courses” tab on your dashboard. Then, select the course you want to access from the list of available courses.
How do I submit an assignment in Canvas?
+To submit an assignment in Canvas, click on the “Assignments” tab in the course navigation menu. Then, select the assignment you want to submit and click on the “Submit Assignment” button.
How do I check my grades in Canvas?
+To check your grades in Canvas, click on the “Grades” tab in the course navigation menu. The grades page will show you your current grade, as well as any assignments or quizzes that are still pending.
