A series of webinars offered ANU staff a first look at our new LMS, Canvas
ANU recently hosted a first look at Canvas, the University’s new learning management system, through four 45-minute Zoom webinars. A total of 241 staff members took part, actively engaging with the platform and asking 102 questions during the Q&A—78 of which were answered live. These sessions offered useful insights into Canvas, which will be rolled out over the next two years (2024-2026).
Introducing a new LMS will bring changes to how we learn and teach at ANU, sparking fresh ideas and opportunities. After each webinar, attendees were invited to complete a survey. On average, participants rated their excitement about Canvas nearly 4 out of 5—showing a positive response following the interactive session.
Canvas Previews webinar facilitators (Marianne Mettes, Fidel Fernando, Boya Yue, Nikki Ayende)
Attendee feedback
While Canvas at ANU is still early in its implementation, the webinars aimed to present how the LMS might look in the ANU context and showcase some of the key features—including a user-focused and modern interface. Attendees commented that the events were well-organised, comprehensive and engaging.
A great introduction to canvas and its streamlined approach to course management.
This was efficient, effective and helpful. Looking forward to rolling Canvas out!
Showcase course site
A showcase course site was presented during the webinars, which featured elements of two actual ANU courses. The course site was developed to showcase some of Canvas’s more notable features, including the capability to simultaneously host postgraduate and undergraduate groups in the same course, flipped learning, and essay alternatives. The showcase course site was developed with thanks to the College of Arts & Social Sciences (CASS) and College of Engineering Computing & Cybernetics (CECC) course convenors.
What’s next?
The ANU Digital Plan Learning and Teaching Stream will be organising events and developing resources related to the implementation of Canvas. You can find information regarding Canvas and details of the roll-out on the Digital Plan Learning & Teaching SharePoint (ANU staff access only).
For general learning and teaching support, including assessment and consultations, contact the Centre for Learning & Teaching or visit the ANU Learning and Teaching website for support and resources.
Marianne Mettes, Education Designer at ANU Centre for Learning and Teaching
