On 1 August, Canvas will replace VITAL as the University’s virtual learning environment (VLE) following a successful pilot this year involving hundreds of different modules and academic programmes.
We spoke to students from across the institution to find out what their experience of using Canvas has been like so far. Here’s what they had to say.
Lilyanna, MSc Marketing
“Canvas is easy to use and really accessible – I can reach the platform from an app on my phone, making it easy to see when my assignments are due and helping me to keep on track of my workload. This is also where I keep my ‘to-do’ list which has all my upcoming deadlines.”
Read more about Lilyana’s experiences of using Canvas.
How to download and use Canvas
For more information on how to download and use the Canvas student app, watch Canvas Coach Joe’s video below:
Phoebe, MSc in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
“It is obvious that there has been a lot more effort put into the user experience in Canvas. Factors like readability and the inclusion of colour make the interface feel more modern. I also like how the confetti would fall down the screen after pressing submit on an assignment – little things like that make it feel like a celebration.”
Read Phoebe’s interview in full.
Matty, BSc (Hons) Maths
“The interface is sleeker and I feel like Canvas has more unique features that students and staff can use. I think the move is definitely an upgrade.”
Read Matty’s interview in full.
Gemma, BA (Hons) Architecture
“Canvas has definitely made the virtual learning experience easier this year. I set up email notifications for Canvas announcements which has allowed me to keep on track of my work flow.”
Find out more about Gemma’s experience of using Canvas.
Don’t miss the deadline
Remember you only have until 31 July to download and save VITAL materials that can’t be copied over into Canvas for you. These materials include:
- Turnitin assignments and feedback
- Blackboard assignments and feedback
- Any relevant Discussion Boards and threads
- Blackboard quizzes
- Items saved within Campus Pack
- Items saved within the Mobius app
Watch these short videos to find out how to download and save you VITAL materials. Further guidance is also available on the Canvas student website.
Need help?
If you need any advice on using Canvas, help is available 24/7, 365-days-a-year. To contact the Canvas Support team, simply log on to Canvas, click the Help icon and choose how you want to contact the Team via online chat, email or phone.
Plus, you can access a whole host of online resources such as step-by-step guides and videos in the Canvas Help for Students course.
If you are unsure how to download and save your VITAL materials, contact Service Desk.