Canvas Overview

Created by Gabrielle Olivas, Modified on Fri, 20 Oct, 2023 at 10:36 AM by Gabrielle Olivas

Welcome to Canvas! Canvas is your Learning Management System (SMS) and is where you will access your course syllabus, course modules, discussion questions, submit assignments, collaborate with your instructor and classmates, and more.

First Time Setup

If this is your first-time accessing Canvas you will be prompted to accept Canvas' Acceptable Use Policy.
Check the box "I agree to the Acceptable Use Policy" and click the "Submit" button.

Canvas Dashboard

Your default page is called your Canvas dashboard.
On the left-hand side of your screen, follow the Canvas navigation links in the vertical grey bar to navigate and familiarize with all features in Canvas.

Pro Tip: You will also notice student announcements posted regularly on your Dashboard. These are helpful and informative reminders for students about events, policy changes, or ways to receive support. After reading them, you can dismiss them by clicking the "x" in the upper right hand corner, or keep them active for future reference.

Accessing Your Classes

On the bottom of your dashboard, you will see a link to each class you are taking. This example screenshot shows a student with access to CIS100 IT Fundamentals (your course title may be different).

Pro Tip: When you are starting your program, you should have access to your first class starting 3-5 days prior to the class start date. If you have reached the start date of your program and you do not see your class here, please submit a HelpDesk ticket by emailing help@ciat.edu.

Class Announcements

Get started with your course by clicking the course icon (appears as a small book) in the grey navigation bar.
Navigate to the "Announcements" menu. Read your welcome announcement and any notifications sent by your instructor prior to the start of class.

Class Syllabus

The class syllabus will give you course information such as deadlines and dates for coursework, as well as the course description and objectives. Make sure you read the syllabus and know what’s expected of you in your class. ★

Modules

The Modules link is where you will do most of your coursework.
You may find additional resources posted here, such as links to lab manuals (if required for your class), links to live class sessions (if available for your class), and more.
Review your detailed week by week schedule such as hands-on exercises, labs, and quizzes.

Final Step

Now you can enter Canvas and complete your CIAT Readiness Course.
Just a reminder, this is located under your Courses tab in Canvas.
Always access Canvas through your Student Portal.
When you are done with your required CIAT Readiness Course, you will see the page below on your course. This will mean you have successfully completed your onboarding!