How Do I Use Modules in Canvas?

Summary

Canvas LMS is a powerful platform for delivering online and hybrid courses. One of its most effective tools for organizing content is Modules. Modules allow faculty to structure learning materials in a clear, logical sequence, helping students navigate the course with ease and stay on track.

Environment

Canvas

Content

Modules in Canvas act like containers for course content. They can include:

  • Pages for instructional text and media.
  • Assignments for graded work.
  • Discussions for collaborative learning.
  • Quizzes for assessment.
  • External links to resources outside Canvas.

Modules provide a roadmap for students, guiding them through the course step by step.

Benefits of Using Modules

  • Organized Content: Group materials by topic, week, or unit for clarity.
  • Guided Learning: Use prerequisites and requirements to control progression.
  • Improved Navigation: Reduce confusion and help students find what they need quickly.
  • Flexibility: Adapt modules for different teaching styles and course formats.

How to Create Modules

  1. Access the Modules Tool: From your course navigation menu, click Modules.
  2. Add a New Module: Click the + Module button, name your module, and save.
  3. Add Items: Use the + icon to add pages, assignments, discussions, quizzes, or links.
  4. Organize Content: Drag and drop items to arrange them in the desired order.

Setting Up Requirements and Prerequisites

  • Requirements: Specify actions students must complete (e.g., “Mark as done” or “Score at least X”).
  • Prerequisites: Control access by requiring completion of previous modules before moving forward.

Example: Students must complete readings before taking a quiz.

Publishing Modules

Modules and their items must be published for students to see them. Unpublished content remains hidden. Use the green checkmark icon to publish modules and individual items.

Best Practices for Faculty

  • Use clear, consistent names for modules and items.
  • Add descriptive titles to help students understand what each item contains.
  • Incorporate multimedia (images, videos) for engagement.
  • Review and update modules regularly to keep content relevant.

Troubleshooting and Support

Common issues include:

  • Students not seeing content (check publishing status).
  • Items appearing out of order (rearrange in the module view).

For help, contact the OIT Support Center.

Additional Resources

Need Additional Help? 

On behalf of OIT’s Instructional Design and Technology (IDT) team, we hope this tutorial is useful. If you encounter any difficulties or have questions related to this procedure, please contact our colleagues in OIT’s Support Center to have a help ticket created and assigned to the IDT team. You may contact the Support Center via email (supportcenter@uhcl.edu) or by telephone (281.283.2828). Once we receive your inquiry, a member of the IDT team will contact you as quickly as resources permit.

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