Canvas - What should I do to prepare for the start of my course? (Students)
beginning of course semester checklist canvas student it prepare begin
Finding Courses in Canvas
- All of your courses will be listed on your Dashboard, or in your Courses list. You should adjust favorites so the desired courses are on your Dashboard.
- Help! I'm missing a course!
- Student guide to using Collaborate Ultra
- Student training and support for Canvas including "Canvas Made Easy" starter guide
Prepare Your Computer
- Make sure your computer’s software is up-to-date.
(Update Windows 10, Update Mac OS) - Use the latest version of Chrome or Firefox.
(Download Chrome, Download Firefox) - Conduct an internet connection speed test. If your internet connection is slow (< 5Mbps) or fluctuates, consider contacting your ISP for assistance.
- Is something not working on the web?
- First: check your site’s permission
Chrome: Change settings for a specific site
Firefox: Change settings for a specific site - Second: “hard reload” the webpage and try again.
- First: check your site’s permission
- Consider installing apps on your computer if the web app isn't working
- Office apps for your computer are free for students!
- Install OneDrive
- Install Microsoft Teams
- Canvas and Collaborate Ultra are designed to work on the web exclusively.
- Is your course using Proctorio? Set-up and install Proctorio for Chrome.
Setting Up Your Webcam and Mic
Always test your webcam video and mic audio when using Collaborate Ultra or Teams.
- Set-up video and audio for Collaborate Ultra
- Set-up video and audio for Microsoft Teams - see "Make a Test Call"
Prepare Your Mobile Device
If you are using mobile devices to access your course, use apps to access university services as a best practice.
- Canvas Student apps
- Microsoft Office apps
- Microsoft Outlook apps
- Current browsers:
- For Canvas, use an app unless KB/documentation call for a browser.
- Chrome from Google Play
- If Safari doesn’t work for iOS, try Chrome from the Apple App Store
Check with your instructor to determine if other mobile apps are needed or suggested.
Where to go for assistance
- Canvas support for students
Contact Canvas Tier I Support - Outlook, Office 365, Microsoft Teams, passwords and other IT issues
Contact the UWM Help Desk - Pearson, McGraw-Hill, Cengage, Macmillan, W.W. Norton and other third-party tools
Contact customer support for these tools.