Learning Management Resources
As an educator, you understand the importance of staying organized, communicating effectively with your students, and providing a seamless learning experience. Canvas is an LMS that can help you achieve all of these goals and more.
This page is designed to answer some of the most common questions you may have as you begin using Canvas for your courses. Whether you are a seasoned Canvas user or just starting, this resource can help you make the most of the platform.
The resources will cover a wide range of topics, from setting up your course to communicating with students to grading assignments and more. You'll also find tips and best practices for using Canvas effectively and links to additional resources that can help you dive deeper into specific features or functions.
We hope this page and FAQs will be a valuable resource as you navigate the world of online learning with Canvas. If you have any additional questions or concerns that are not addressed here, please don't hesitate to contact our Canvas support team for assistance.
Canvas Users FAQ
Students who are officially registered for a course are updated in Canvas each morning, including on weekends. Outside of this automated process, there may be situations where you need to grant a student access to a course that they have not registered for, such as if a student is finishing an incomplete and needs to be in an active course or a student who is registered for an independent study but needs access to your course.
This request must be submitted using the form below and approved by a dean, chair, or program coordinator.
| Feature | Canvas | Respondus LockDown Browser | Respondus Monitor | Akindi | Examind |
| Modality | Online and In-Person Testing | Fully Online Testing | Fully Online Testing | In-Person Testing | Online and Hybrid Testing |
| Use Case Scenario | Enhanced quiz functionality within Canvas, offering features like question banks, timed assessments, and automatic grading. Includes item analysis and question randomization to enhance assessment integrity. Great for quizzes and low-stakes assessments where flexibility is key. | A secure browser that locks students into the test environment, preventing navigation away from the exam. | AI-driven automated proctoring that records and monitors students during the test. | Quick grading for bubble-sheet tests. Great for large classes. Ideal for instructors who prefer traditional testing methods combined with modern grading tools. | Advanced proctoring options with AI-based monitoring. Designed for scalability and security. Promises robust data insights and AI-driven anomaly detection for academic integrity. |
| User Interface Intuitiveness | Seamlessly integrated into Canvas with an intuitive interface designed for instructors and students. Easy navigation with drag-and-drop functionality for creating diverse question types. | Requires separate setup within Canvas, strict testing controls but may require training for smooth implementation. | Built into LockDown Browser, requires webcam setup and may need student training. | User-friendly for printing, scanning, and grading bubble sheets. Simple design with clear steps for printing, scanning, and uploading. | Modern interface with AI tools but may require initial training for optimal use. Cutting-edge interface with AI-driven features tailored for tech-savvy users. |
| Technical Support & Training | Standard Canvas support, limited training required due to built-in functionality. Moderate support required for advanced quiz options, built-in Canvas resources available. | University-supported with dedicated guides and tutorials; requires instructor setup. | University-supported with technical documentation; training is recommended for first-time users. | Simple and intuitive; minimal training needed for scanning and uploading. | Advanced AI-driven support with training available for instructors. |
| Live Proctoring Capabilities | No live proctoring, but offers question randomization to reduce cheating. Relies on honor system. | No live proctoring, but restricts browser use, preventing cheating through other applications. | Live monitoring via AI, detects suspicious activity such as leaving the camera view or additional people present. | No live proctoring, works for in-person exams. | Live and AI-proctored exams with real-time monitoring capabilities. |
| Test Question Types | Expansive question types including multiple-choice, categorization, hot-spot, essay, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer. | Limited to text-based question types but ensures test security. | Works alongside LockDown Browser but maintains the same limitations on test question types. | Bubble-sheet-based; primarily multiple-choice with minimal customization. | Supports a variety of question types including adaptive learning options. |
| Flexibility in Test Settings | Supports varied question banks, automatic grading, and accessibility accommodations. Time limits, open/closed book settings, and basic accessibility features. | Prevents test navigation, screen-sharing, and copying; requires pre-test setup for accommodations. | Strict proctoring capabilities with AI-driven reports to flag potential cheating instances. | Supports timed exams with printed answer sheets, but no adaptive testing features. | Highly flexible, allowing for multiple security levels and customized testing environments. |