UK Moving from Blackboard to Canvas
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 25, 2015) — The learning management system (LMS) countdown is on: the University of Kentucky is moving from Blackboard to Canvas, and on June 1, 2016, the university will retire Blackboard completely.
Students may find that some of their fall courses are in Canvas while others are in Blackboard. Individual faculty will choose the best for their course this semester, but all courses will be in Canvas by June 1.
During the last four years, UK faculty, students, and staff have provided feedback and usability preferences for a “next generation” LMS. Instructure’s Canvas fit the bill. A software-as-a-service (SaaS) system, Canvas provides seamless, continuous small upgrades over time that do not require downtime, along with enhanced usability, and robust mobile functionality and text notifications through the Canvas app. Students also will find a helpful calendar, a “what-if” grade analysis, a personal e-Portfolio, and the option to choose how Canvas will send them notifications, among other things.
Students and faculty using the system have 24/7/365 support that is only a click away. Once in Canvas, users can click the Help button (at the bottom of the menu at left) anytime to access live chat, call the support hotline, or search the online Canvas Guides.
If help is needed to get started, visit http://www.uky.edu/canvas/. Students can click the online tutorials link to find the Student Video Orientation, where they will learn how to choose the right browser, check grades, manage personal files, set up an ePortfolio, and more. Faculty who visit the page will find orientation and transition resources for themselves and their courses. The page also provides login links to Canvas and to Blackboard.
Students who find that they are unable to login to Canvas should contact the UK Analytics and Technologies (UKAT) Service Desk at 859-218-HELP (859-218-4357).
MEDIA CONTACT: Whitney Harder, 859-323-2396, whitney.harder@uky.edu