Canvas - A New Learning Management System
The University of Alberta is known for innovation and a deep commitment to those we serve. In line with these values, and as part of the Student Experience Action Plan, we are investing in a new Learning Management System.
A learning management system (or LMS) is a software platform that lets instructors design, deliver, and assess learning programs and outcomes. Students can use an LMS to manage their course materials, submit assignments, check their learning progress, and more.
U of A has used eClass as its LMS since 2009, and is in the process of moving to Canvas. Canvas has been selected based on student feedback from the Student Experience Action Plan. It offers enhanced accessibility, a mobile-friendly design, intuitive learning tools and more – all aimed at improving your educational experience.
The University of Alberta is investing in new infrastructure to continue delivering an exceptional educational experience. The transition to Canvas will modernize and enhance the teaching and learning environment. This shift aims to address the limitations of the current LMS system, which has faced significant outages and usability limitations. Following extensive consultations and evaluations, Canvas was chosen for its user-friendly interface, accessibility features and global reputation.
This transition will be implemented in three waves beginning in Fall 2024.
LMS Project timeline
With the evolving needs of the university community, a more modern teaching and learning experience has become essential.
Wave 1: Onboarding July 2024
(live August 6) for early adopters who want to build courses from scratch using Canvas.
The last two years of eClass catalogue courses will be waiting in Canvas with simple activation checklists for instructors. Courses will be automatically migrated from eClass to Canvas to minimize manual work in the new LMS.
Wave 3: Continued onboarding through July 2025 (live in August) for select Faculty currently using STACK integration who need more support migrating eClass courses from the last two years to Canvas.
All for-credit Fall 2025 courses will be taught in Canvas.