Canvas-based course design

The first course I helped design from scratch in Canvas launched into its pilot phase in 2019, and we're republishing this post because it's still a solid example of what a strong Canvas course can look like. The design hasn't changed much over the years, but the team behind the course has kept the content up to date in this evolving field. Here's a look at some of my favorite elements of the course's design.

Clean, welcoming front page

One of Canvas's highlights is the ability to design a "homepage" that removes clutter and puts the key resources for learners front and center.

Call-out boxes

Call-out boxes mimic those from text books, putting the content discussed into context. In this course, these boxes highlight opportunities to get involved, relate the course context to things in the news, highlight new research, and provide opportunities to explore the topic further. 

Drawers and tabs

The drawer and tab functions, available through design tools, allow you to group information without the dreaded "scroll of death." 

Animated GIFs

A few animated GIFs in this course illustrate and reinforce key concepts. This example shows how, over time, plants can become resistant to pesticides. 

Hover overs

ThingLink and DesignTools "hover overs" allow learners to interact with the text or images to reinforce concepts such as key terms.

P.S.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention what excites me most about this course, but it's what's not here that I'm excited about. This course didn't lean on narrated PowerPoints to deliver its content. There are some videos, but they're of experts in the field commenting on the topics discussed. There are also some videos that highlight recent research. But you won't find the course instructors lecturing in this course. Not one bit. Kudos, Megan and team!