Countdown to Canvas

Over 700 courses were taught in Canvas in Fall 2023, laying the foundation for a successful move to Canvas next semester. The Teaching, Learning, and Technology Center has prepared key dates and essential steps to ensure a smooth and seamless transition from Blackboard to Canvas.

Key Transition Dates

Ten Tips to Prepare for Canvas

1. Review your migrated course content.
   

   • During the migration process, every effort is made to identify matching functionality between Blackboard and Canvas. Each item of your course content will be migrated as cleanly and completely as possible. However, there are instances where functionality doesn't quite match, requiring you to conduct a post-migration review and make adjustments accordingly.
     
     
   • Once  finalized, easily copy your content from one Canvas course shell to another. 
     
     

2. Explore additional options for moving your course to Canvas.

   • Migrate A Course Yourself
   • No Migration – Start Fresh in Canvas 
     
     

3. Download your Blackboard materials.

   • Both faculty and students are encouraged to download assignments, tests or other data from Blackboard for your own records prior to December 12, 2023.

     Note: the export course tool can create a package file containing course content; however, no users or user interactions will be included in the file.
     
     

4. Download Copies of the Blackboard Grade Center.

   • Faculty are encouraged to download copies of the Blackboard Grade Center, especially if you have students with incomplete grades. If a grade dispute arises in the future, it is important to have a backup of grade data. 
     
     Note: Please encourage students to finish their "incomplete" before December 19, 2023. Work due after December 19 must be completed in Canvas or an alternate arrangement. Student submissions and grades will not be transferred to Canvas. If you need assistance on moving content and grades to Canvas for an incomplete, please submit a ticket. 

5. Practice or build your course structure in Canvas.

   • Request a sandbox course to practice using the tools available within Canvas or begin designing/setting up your course for the upcoming semester.
     
     Note: a Canvas sandbox course is an unofficial course site for your use only. Students cannot be enrolled in a Sandbox course; however, sandbox courses can be copied into the actual course site once the official course is created.

6. Ensure Canvas-readiness by completing the Start of the Semester Checklist.

   • Review your course and check-off items that are easily missed. The checklist provides links to Canvas guides and videos to help with completing each task.

7. Learn about Canvas training and support options.

   • The TLTC offers a variety of training options, including one-on-one support, in-person, remote, and self-paced workshops, open labs, and a comprehensive set of how-to articles.

8. Enroll in a self-paced on-demand training course, 'Growing with Canvas.'

   • Divided into six distinct modules, each focused on specific functionality within Canvas, this course is designed for you to work through the content at your own pace.

9. Visit the Canvas Transition site.

   • Stay up to date on the latest information about the migration process, timeline and training opportunities.

10. Contact your Instructional Design Liaison.

    • The instructional design team is available to provide individual support.

Categories: Science and Technology