Essential Best Practices for Designing an Engaging Canvas Course

When designing a Canvas course, follow key practices to create a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Focus on these three essential principles:

Dynamic Course Homepage: Create an informative, welcoming homepage that serves as the main entry point for students. Include a greeting, course objectives, important announcements and a course schedule. Use visuals, videos or multimedia to boost appeal and interactivity.

Structured Learning Modules: Design each module with a clear structure to guide students through content. Start with an overview of the module’s objectives, provide educational materials (readings, videos), add interactive activities or discussions and finish with an assessment or task. Clearly state learning outcomes for each module.

Consistent Course Organization: Organize course content in a straightforward, consistent manner to help students easily find and access materials. Group related content, assignments and resources into modules; provide clear instructions and labels; and maintain a logical flow between modules.

These are just a few best practices to consider. Align your course structure with your teaching goals, address learner needs and preferences and continuously refine your course based on feedback and assessment results.

NOVA Course Designers can assist with the best practices for your synchronous Canvas courses. Book an appointment today! 

Submitted by:
Johnna Denny, CETSS, JDenny@nvcc.edu