UMass Amherst Canvas Guide

Introduction to UMass Amherst Canvas

The University of Massachusetts Amherst uses Canvas as its primary learning management system. Canvas is a powerful tool that allows instructors to create and manage their courses, while providing students with a user-friendly interface to access course materials, submit assignments, and engage with their peers. In this guide, we will walk you through the basics of using Canvas at UMass Amherst, including navigating the dashboard, accessing courses, and utilizing key features.

Navigating the Canvas Dashboard

When you log in to Canvas, you will be taken to the dashboard, which provides an overview of your current courses and upcoming events. The dashboard is divided into several sections:

• Course Cards: These display your current and upcoming courses, along with any pending assignments or announcements.
• To-Do List: This section shows you a list of upcoming assignments and deadlines for all your courses.
• Calendar: The calendar view allows you to see all your upcoming events and deadlines in a monthly format.
• Global Navigation: The global navigation menu is located on the left side of the screen and provides access to various Canvas features, such as courses, groups, and account settings.

Accessing Courses in Canvas

To access a course in Canvas, follow these steps:

• Log in to Canvas using your UMass Amherst NetID and password.
• Click on the Courses tab in the global navigation menu.
• Find the course you want to access and click on the course card.
• Once you are in the course, you can navigate to different sections, such as Modules, Assignments, and Discussions, using the course navigation menu.

Key Features of Canvas

Canvas offers a wide range of features to support teaching and learning. Some of the key features include:

• Modules: Modules allow instructors to organize course content into logical sections, making it easy for students to follow along.
• Assignments: The assignments feature allows instructors to create and manage assignments, quizzes, and exams, while providing students with a clear understanding of what is expected of them.
• Discussions: The discussions feature enables students to engage with their peers and instructors through online forums and discussions.
• Quizzes and Exams: Canvas offers a range of quiz and exam options, including timed quizzes, proctored exams, and peer review assignments.

Using Canvas on Mobile Devices

Canvas offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to access your courses and content on the go. The Canvas mobile app provides many of the same features as the desktop version, including:

• Course access: Access your courses and course materials, including assignments, discussions, and quizzes.
• Notifications: Receive notifications about upcoming events, new assignments, and messages from instructors.
• Submission: Submit assignments and quizzes directly from your mobile device.

📱 Note: While the Canvas mobile app is convenient, it's recommended to use the desktop version for more complex tasks, such as creating and editing assignments.

Canvas Support and Resources

UMass Amherst provides a range of support and resources to help you get the most out of Canvas. These include:

• Canvas Support Center: The Canvas Support Center offers ²⁴⁄₇ support, including live chat, phone, and email support.
• UMass Amherst IT: The UMass Amherst IT department provides support for Canvas and other technology-related issues.
• Canvas Guides: Canvas offers a range of guides and tutorials to help you learn how to use the platform.

Resource	Description
Canvas Support Center	24/7 support, including live chat, phone, and email support
UMass Amherst IT	Support for Canvas and other technology-related issues
Canvas Guides	Guides and tutorials to help you learn how to use Canvas

In conclusion, Canvas is a powerful tool that can enhance your learning experience at UMass Amherst. By understanding how to navigate the dashboard, access courses, and utilize key features, you can get the most out of Canvas and achieve your academic goals.