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

  • Microsoft Office (Free Office365 for students and employees )
  • Google Docs
  • Open Office (Note: Save As .doc, .docx)

  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

• Adobe Acrobat Reader

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

211 – Canvas Overview from Canvas LMS on Vimeo. *To view subtitles for this video, click the CC button in the tool bar and select a language.

GUIDE: Navigation

Communication in Canvas

212 – Conversations (EN) from Canvas LMS on Vimeo. *To view subtitles for this video, click the CC button in the tool bar and select a language.

GUIDE: Canvas Notifications & Profile Guide

How to Take a Quiz

220 – Quizzes (EN) from Canvas LMS on Vimeo. *To view subtitles for this video, click the CC button in the tool bar and select a language.

GUIDE: Canvas Quiz Guide

How to Post a Discussion Entry

219 – Discussions (EN) from Canvas LMS on Vimeo. *To view subtitles for this video, click the CC button in the tool bar and select a language.

GUIDE: Canvas Discussion Guide

How to Submit an Assignment

215 – Assignment Submissions (EN) from Canvas LMS on Vimeo. *To view subtitles for this video, click the CC button in the tool bar and select a language.

GUIDE: Canvas Assignment Guide

Grades

218 – Grades (EN) from Canvas LMS on Vimeo. *To view subtitles for this video, click the CC button in the tool bar and select a language.

GUIDE: Canvas Grades Guide

All Student Canvas Guides

Review the full list of Canvas Student Guides.