This summer, all my classes were in Canvas, and as a student, this gave me the opportunity to become familiar with the platform. I really learned to appreciate how easy it is to use and that it is overall very aesthetically pleasing. Aside from the difficulty of having to keep up with two learning platforms, I’m hoping all of my courses are on Canvas this fall semester. Compared to TRACS, Canvas is more intuitive to use and customizable.
Since using Canvas all throughout the summer, here are a few of my favorite Canvas features:
Interface
You can’t deny that the look of Canvas is more modern than TRACS. You can also customize the look of your Canvas Dashboard to a way that works best for you. Set a nickname for your course, or color-code your courses to what fits you best.
Notifications
Notifications for TRACS was always hit or miss for me. I had to be constantly checking TRACS because I couldn’t always depend that I would get an email. But with Canvas, I was able to customize how many notifications I receive. I can choose to get them in an email, via text, or even as a notification on Twitter.
Canvas Student app
Using the app was really helpful. It’s well organized and I’m able to easily access everything on the site. I frequently checked my grades, submission comments from my professors, and was able to take quizzes on the app.
Help menu
On Canvas, there’s an extensive “Help” menu where you can browse through a student guide, ask your instructor a question, or even contact ITAC with any questions you might need help with.
Without Canvas, I know I would have struggled more in my summer classes and they would not have been as enjoyable. And while I already have one class confirmed to be in TRACS for the fall, I’m looking forward to spring 2021 when all of my classes will be on Canvas.
Chantal Lesley is a marketing and communications specialist student employee in the IT Marketing and Communications office.
