Canvas Review (Student Perspective)

Description: Canvas is a course management system that allows students to have complete control of their role in a class. From anywhere, justing a smartphone, PC, or tablet, they can gain instant access to their grades, assignments, due dates, announcements, etc. Course management systems like Canvas take the guessing and uncertainty out of the life of the students. The assignment due dates, syllabus, files, and every other resource for the class is available 24/7 and makes the course requirements very transparent.

Pros: Being able to access their grades instantly may encourage students to turn their work in early. Also, being able to clearly see where they stand as far as grades go, puts the responsibility in the students' hands, and removes the mystery of the final grade. This can empower students to achieve the score they wish to receive. Also, being able to upload the assignment to Canvas can save time and paper.

Cons: If students fail to check Canvas regularly, and the teacher has been using Canvas exclusively, they will tend to miss assignments and important announcements. Also, if Canvas goes down for any reason, students will lose access to the entire course until the site is up again.

Overall feeling: It is my opinion that the benefits of using a course management system like Canvas far outweigh the negative aspects. While students may feel overwhelmed when Canvas is first introduced, it will quickly become a helper and facilitator in their learning.