Need to make sure that your Canvas content is ready to go for students? Follow these steps for a smooth launch of your subject in Spring 2021.
Before launch day
1. Check that your subject site is ready for students
You subject site will be available to students on the 26th of July so make you dot the i’s and cross the t’s, and make sure your site is accessible to everyone before then
Brand new Canvas subject site for Spring? Use our new-subject checklist to ensure that your Canvas site is ready for students.
Subject site copied over from a previous session? Use our subject rollover checklist to see what’s copied over and what isn’t.
2. Update your readings with the Library’s Reading Lists tool
The Reading Lists tool from the Library has replaced the eReadings (aka. DRR) and Reserve services. Remember to check that Reading Lists is available to students in your Canvas subject site so that students can access required and recommended readings right from the start of session.
Check out their downloadable guide, Quick start to Reading Lists, or contact the library directly if you’d like to learn more.
Multi-factor authentication
From the 22nd of July, all UTS students will use multi-factor authentication, also known as MFA, to sign into UTS applications, such as Canvas. They will need to set up their MFA, following the steps provided and downloading the ‘Okta’ app on their mobile phone.
On launch day, 26th of July
3. Send a Welcome announcement to your students from Canvas
Your subject site will be automatically published on Monday the 26th of July.
Once your subject site is live, send out your Welcome announcement. This is one of the best ways to connect with students and to help them get ready for the upcoming session. If you’d like to, you can base your message on our welcome announcement template (link downloads a PowerPoint file).
Note that any announcements posted before your subject site is published on the 26th will not be received by students.
4. Know where you and your students can go for Canvas support
Support for your students
- Canvas 24/7 online and phone support
- IT Support: Online, phone 02 9514 2222 or book an on-campus appointment
- UTS Canvas Student Guide
- Self help resources on Canvas Community Student Guide
- Student Enquiry Team for administrative and hands-on support
- Student Learning Hub for advice and guidance on UTS student support services, including peer to peer coaching on how to use Canvas
- HELPS for assistance with understanding assignments and interpreting feedback.
Support for you
- LX.lab and your LXT chapter for all things learning technologies related
- Self help resources on LX Resources
- Canvas 24/7 online or phone support on 1800 (+61) 1800 017 123
- IT Support Center: online IT support, phone 02 9514 2222, or book an on-campus appointment for general technical-related issues – for example, access issues.
Week 1 of session
5. Remind students where they can access their learning materials and online Zoom classes and break the ice
Share these speaking points with tutors to use in their first session reminding students where to access their learning materials.
To help you organise your online classes this session, we have some tips to help you keep Zoom links in a consistent space for students.
6. Break the ice and get active online
If you’re looking for quick and easy ideas to help you get your class community building started and to make online learning engaging, we’ve put together a collection of activities for you. Icebreakers, morning tea, reading and note taking—there’s lots to explore and try out.
Feature image by Ash from Modern Afflatus.