Canvas is IU's learning management system (LMS). Developed by Instructure, Inc., Canvas includes standard tools such as assignments, grades, discussions, announcements, quizzes, files, and syllabus as well as additional tools for outcomes, rubrics, and course analytics. There are many external tools that can be integrated into Canvas, including publisher tools, to expand its functionality.
All IU students, faculty, and staff can log into Canvas using their IU credentials or an IU Guest account. You can access Canvas at IU from a web browser (on a computer, smartphone, or tablet) or via the mobile apps distributed by Instructure in the Play Store and App Store.
If you need to access Canvas with an IU group account, you will need to contact the UITS Mission Critical team and request a corresponding Canvas account. For more about accessing Canvas, see Access Canvas at IU.
To access your courses, go to http://canvas.iu.edu and click the Login button.
You will see your courses on the Dashboard (
) or in the Courses (
) list.
Frequently Asked Questions
A course I’m teaching in the future isn't available yet. Can I still get started in Canvas?
Yes! First, you will want to create a practice site in Canvas (aka “Course Shell). Once you create the practice site, you can add in all your future course content. When the official course becomes available, you can easily import all content from the practice course to the new course.
How do students find my course?
Students will not be able to access course sites in Canvas until they are published. Once your course site is published, it will appear on their Canvas dashboard automatically.
How do students learn how to use Canvas?
Students have had very few issues with using Canvas due to its intuitive and easy-to-use design. Canvas has an excellent student guide and a large support community online. Students can also contact the UITS Support Center for additional help.
Where can I get additional help as an instructor?
- Canvas Getting Started videos from the CTL
- Canvas Semester Checklist
- Canvas Instructor Guide
- Contact the CTL for a consultation with a digital learning consultant