Canvas
Why Switch to Canvas?
Below are some advantages of the Canvas LMS. For more information, please visit the answers to frequently asked questions about this LMS transition.
1
Modern, User-Friendly Interface
- Canvas offers an intuitive, streamlined interface that simplifies navigation for faculty and students. Its clean, intuitive design makes it easier to manage courses, assignments, and grades.
- The platform’s dashboard provides quick access to course materials, announcements, and notifications.
2
Mobile Accessibility
- Canvas provides robust mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing students and faculty to access courses, submit assignments, and engage in discussions on the go.
- Canvas’s mobile-friendly design supports MTSU’s goal of fostering a flexible, accessible learning environment.
3
Robust Integrations with Third-Party Tools
- Canvas supports seamless integration with tools commonly used at MTSU, such as iClicker, Panopto, and Turnitin. These integrations enhance teaching and learning by connecting with existing university workflows.
- Canvas’s open API and learning tools interoperability (LTI) standards make it easier for MTSU to incorporate new tools as technology evolves.
4
Enhanced Analytics and Reporting
- Canvas provides advanced analytics features, such as course-level insights and student performance tracking, which help faculty monitor engagement and identify at-risk students in real time.
- These capabilities support MTSU’s commitment to provide high-quality, data-driven student support.
5
Streamlined Course Migration and Support
- With tools like K16 Solutions, Canvas facilitates efficient migration of course content from D2L Brightspace, minimizing disruption for faculty. This ensures a smoother transition.
- Canvas’s training resources provide comprehensive support for faculty and students during the transition and beyond.
6
Scalability and Future-Proofing
- Canvas is a cloud-based platform, offering greater scalability and reliability, rather than relying on older infrastructure. This aligns with MTSU’s goal to future-proof its digital learning environment.
- Regular updates from Instructure ensure Canvas remains current with emerging educational technologies and pedagogical needs.
7
Improved Student Engagement Features
- Canvas includes tools like discussion boards, quizzes, and collaborative workspaces that are more engaging and easier to use. Features like SpeedGrader streamline grading, saving faculty time.
- The platform supports interactive elements such as embedded H5P content to enhance student engagement.
8
Active User Community
- Canvas has a large, active base of supporters and contributors via the Instructure Community, providing access to shared resources, best practices, and peer support.
Assessment of LMS Vendors
In the Spring of 2025, the LMS Work Group (19 members) convened by Academic Affairs conducted an extensive review of D2L Brightspace and Instructure Canvas. A summary from the work group is below.
Each assessment item was rated from 1 (low) to 7 (high).
| Assessment | Brightspace D2L | Instructure Canvas | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| How do you rate the vendor’s overall quality of presentation? | 4.0 | 6.79 | 2.79 |
| Level of customizability (user permissions, course options, other features)? | 5.11 | 6.05 | 0.94 |
| Breadth of features (to support course development, grading, student learning, etc.)? | 5.00 | 6.37 | 1.37 |
| Ease of navigation (for faculty and students)? | 4.63 | 6.37 | 1.74 |
| Mobile application? | 3.16 | 6.42 | 3.26 |
| Past and/or likely future support for faculty? | 4.26 | 6.32 | 2.06 |
| Research and development of new and innovative tools (e.g., AI, accessibility, instructional design/technology, etc.)? | 4.16 | 6.42 | 2.26 |
| Which product is the best long-term LMS solution for MTSU students and faculty? | 3.53 | 6.16 | 2.63 |