Learn About Canvas

Canvas is a Learning Management System developed by Instructure, Inc. Canvas allows instructors to share course content, integrate multimedia, course communication, student assessments (quizzes, assignments, surveys, portfolios), and student grades to create a cohesive, connected virtual space for your class.

Required Technology

Computer and Internet Access

You will need access to a personal computer with Internet access. The computer should be running one of the following operating systems: Windows 10, or MacOS. You will need to have a web camera and a microphone to participate in remote learning activities (need to link to guide on participant success with remote technology).

Note: It is important to identify and prepare a back-up computer and Internet connection to ensure capability in the event of technical problems. Don't forget that you can use the computers in either one of the MCC Libraries.

  • Word Processing Software Available to Students

    Other Specialized Software may be required. Software may not be available or identical for different platforms (Mac, PC, Linux).

  • Computer Hardware

    Some activities in our courses require that you use a microphone and a web-camera. You can purchase both from retail stores such as Walmart, Target, Best Buy, etc.

Recommended Web Browsers

It is recommended you have the newest version of Chrome, Firefox, or Safari. Internet Explorer is not recommended (especially anything below IE 8). Review the Canvas Guidelines for supported browsers.

It might be necessary to sometimes clear your cache. For steps on how to do that, visit the following link: Clearing Browser Cache.

Required Plug-ins

Canvas Tutorials

Enroll in Canvas 101

To familiarize yourself with how to navigate and use Canvas, please login to the Canvas 101 practice course OR watch the below videos. If you have additional questions, contact the HelpCenter at (480) 461-7217 or http://www.mesacc.edu/helpcenter.

Canvas Student Guides

How to Navigate Canvas

Canvas Navigation Overview

Video Transcript

GUIDE: How do I use the Course Home Page as a student?

Communication in Canvas

Canvas Inbox for Sending Messages

Video Transcript

GUIDE: How do I send a message to a user in a course in the Inbox as a student?

How to Take a Quiz

Canvas Student Quizzes Overview

Video Transcript

GUIDE: How do I take a quiz?

How to Post a Discussion Entry

Canvas Discussions Overview

Video Transcript

GUIDE: How do I reply to a discussion as a student?

How to Submit an Assignment

Canvas Student Assignment Submissions

Video Transcript

GUIDE: How do I submit an online assignment?

Grades

Canvas Student Grades

Video Transcript

GUIDE: How do I view my grades in a current course?

All Student Canvas Guides

Review the full list of Canvas Student Guides.