Canvas: Getting Started for Instructors

We recommend the following steps for those who are just getting started with Canvas at the University of Minnesota.

Step 1: Explore Canvas

• Log in to Canvas. If you are teaching a course, you will see your auto-generated unpublished course sites. Learn more about unpublished course sites.
• Request a development site to explore Canvas and try out its features. You can develop your course and easily import it into your upcoming semester’s unpublished course site when ready.

Step 2: Start Building Your Site

Note: You may have academic technologists in your unit who can assist with the course design and development process.

• Option 1: Import content from an existing Canvas site.
  • How do I copy content from another Canvas course using the Course Import tool?
  • How do I export a Canvas course?
  • How do I import a Canvas course export package?

• Option 2: Build from scratch.
  You can start fresh and build from scratch. To help you get started we have a number of helpful resources: 
  • UMN Canvas Self-Help Guides
  • UMN Canvas Training

• Option 3: Build using a template.
  Units from across UMN have established pre-built templates that can be used to provide a general framework for creating a usable and well-designed site. 

Step 3: Publish Your Course Site

• Review Start of Semester Checklist.
• Once finalized, your course site needs to be published so enrolled students can find and access it. 
• Notify your students (optional).