Your guide to Canvas: Important student information for spring semester

This spring semester, Ohio University is continuing its transition to Canvas, the University’s new learning management system (LMS).

Colleges are migrating to Canvas in phases, with the positive experiences of OHIO students being the top priority. Transitioning to a new technology can be challenging, but OHIO representatives are here to support students every step of the way.  

Although almost all programs will be utilizing Canvas this spring semester, some OHIO students might still have classes being taught in various systems. To find where courses will be taught, students are encouraged to:

1. Review your syllabus and look for communication from your instructor to determine whether Canvas, Blackboard, or another system will be used in your course.
2. You can also log in to Canvas at canvas.ohio.edu. If your courses appear on the Dashboard page or in the “Courses” tab in the left navigation menu, they’ll be taught in Canvas.
3. If you can’t see your course in Canvas, visit blackboard.ohio.edu. Your instructor will open your course in Blackboard if this is the system of choice for your class. 
4. If you can’t locate your course, please contact your instructor for further information.

Helpful tips for the spring semester

• Prepare for Canvas: Join Canvas experts for a 1-hour virtual workshop where they will explore Canvas as a student. Workshops will be held Jan. 27 and Jan. 28. Or, enroll in the Passport to Canvas (Student Orientation) course. This self-guided training will help OHIO students become familiar with Canvas before the semester begins.
• Get help in Canvas: Canvas offers 24/7 support to OHIO students. Navigate to “Get Help” in the left navigation menu within Canvas to access live chat, call the hotline, or explore other instructional resources.
• Adjust your notifications: Canvas notifications function a bit differently than Blackboard notifications. By default, OHIO students won't receive email notifications for course announcements. Adjust your Canvas notifications to suit your preferences.
• Download the Go OHIO App: OHIO students can access Canvas course content through the Go OHIO app. 

OHIO is committed to providing technology that enhances the student experience. Throughout the spring semester, the University will be collecting student feedback on how to improve Canvas. Additionally, students can submit the anonymous Canvas feedback form to provide their suggestions at any point this semester. 

If you have additional questions about Canvas, visit the Canvas Student Resources webpage.