University of Alberta Transitions to New Learning Management System Canvas

The University of Alberta has announced a significant change in its Learning Management System (LMS), transitioning from eClass to Canvas by fall 2025. This decision comes after receiving considerable feedback from students, faculty, and staff regarding the current system.

Canvas, which became available for U of A students and instructors on August 6, is expected to enhance the learning experience at the university. Students can verify their course availability on Canvas using their CCID. The transition was formally announced in fall 2023 as part of a strategy to meet the evolving needs within the university.

According to the Vice-Provost of Learning Initiatives, Dr. Mündel, this transition is a response to concerns about eClass’s effectiveness. Mündel noted that there were questions surrounding whether eClass could adequately serve its purpose. Moreover, transitioning to a vendor-supported system like Canvas, which is owned and operated by Instructure, aims to leverage external partnerships to improve the overall learning environment for students.

The rollout of Canvas will occur in three waves over a two-year period. The first wave is scheduled for fall 2024, with individual faculties and instructors determining if they will transition during this phase. Dr. Mündel emphasized that the decision is ultimately left to the instructors based on their specific curriculum needs.

Wave two is planned for winter 2025, focusing on integrating features such as online proctoring and polling functionalities. The final wave will cater to courses requiring additional accommodations, particularly in disciplines like math and engineering. Every faculty is expected to transition to Canvas by fall 2025, with considerable support provided to instructors during this change.

To select the new LMS, U of A invited interested parties to submit proposals, which were thoroughly vetted by a selection committee. The finalists then presented their systems to the university community, a process that played a crucial role in choosing Canvas as the new LMS.