Canvas Learning Management System - What is it?
After great deliberation, the Sequoia Union High School District adopted Canvas LMS during the Fall of 2017. While we are well aware that parents and students enjoyed the simplicity of our former tool, there were many challenges that made its continued use impossible. As such, a representative group of stakeholders reviewed many different options, ultimately choosing a learning management system that would best prepare our students for their future.
Canvas is not a gradebook. While it does have a gradebook component, Canvas is much more. It is a robust learning management system. A learning management system provides schools a way to simplify teaching and learning by connecting all the digital tools teachers use in one accessible place. Currently, our district uses tools such as GSuite (Google), TurnItIn, Gale Library resources, FlipGrid, and others; because SUHSD uses Canvas, students and teachers can now access these tools in one place, eliminating the need to sign into multiple services in order to achieve curricular goals.
Canvas allows students a portal where they can access all of their coursework in one place. Students also have the ability to submit work through Canvas, engage in online discussions, and participate in group work. Teachers can design their curriculum online, grade student submissions online, communicate more easily with their students and post other important information. Many teachers and students are only beginning to see the depth of Canvas’ offerings. There are many ways students and teachers can engage in rich teaching and learning experiences through this tool.
We know that Canvas is not perfect; however, there is no perfect tool that will meet every need of every student and staff member. Canvas has been adopted by the San Mateo County Community College District, California State University system, University of California system, Stanford University, and other private colleges. It is our hope that our students will be better equipped for their academic future not only because they enjoy the rigorous and rich academic opportunities provided by the SUHSD, but also because they will have a comfort and understanding of the learning management tool utilized by the majority of universities in California and beyond.
If help is needed adjusting your Canvas Notifications, please go to this link: http:bit.ly/suhsd-canvas-notify
