Canvas Simple Quick Start Guide
Anxious about using Canvas for the first time or worried there just isn’t enough time
to get ready?
Don’t panic!
Just keep it SIMPLE
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Start by importing a CSUSM template and/or import content from a previous course.
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Insert your Syllabus.
M
Minimize the scope: focus on just the first two weeks and unpublish everything else.
P
Personalize your course.
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- Add a profile picture and short bio
- If you used a template, to personalize your course follow the “Editing the CSUSM Canvas Template” PDF included in the template. Keep in mind the template is just a starting point, it is not set in stone. Feel free to edit, delete, unpublish anything in it!
- If you didn’t use a template, choose a Home Page. If you wish to create a custom homepage, first create a page. Add text, images, links, etc. using the Rich Content Editor. Then, set it as the Front Page. Finally, choose set it as your Home Page.
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Let students access the course by publishing your course.
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Engage your students by sending an announcement welcoming them to the course.
During this transition time, keep your expectations manageable and your course simple. Remember that course development is a continual process. Just as you would not task your students with too much at all once to avoid cognitive overload, give yourself permission to focus on a simple beginning this semester.
Take It Further
- If you have the time and capacity, take a look at our more comprehensive Getting Starting Guide.
- Check out our Faculty FAQs page for answers to many of your questions.
- Quickly access all your Canvas Support options
- Explore our main Canvas page