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How to Use Canvas for Students

Instructions on getting started using Canvas

Tips for Canvas Use

  • Check Canvas daily for updates and feedback
  • Check your course syllabus on Canvas
  • Know how to access your assignments and discussions on Canvas
  • Contact your instructor through Canvas with any questions

Inside your Course Home Page

  • Click on the course name to get to the home page for your course.
  • Here you will find:
    • Course name
    • CRN
    • Class meeting time, dates, and physical location
    • Number of units
    • Instructor's name, office hours, and email address
    • Course information including required textbooks, materials, instructional objectives, student learning outcomes, course guidelines and policies

Syllabus

  • Click on your course name to access your syllabus
  • The syllabus will include all the important elements of your course including assignments, due dates, grades, and course criteria

Discussions

  • Click on the course name to access discussions with your classmates

People

  • Click on the course name to communicate with other students in your class

Canvas Overview Video for Students

Canvas Menu

  • Announcements:  Each time you log in, announcements will appear first. "X" out the announcement once you have read it in order to remove it.
  • Dashboard: The dashboard is your home page. This is where all your courses will be listed.
  • Courses: This is a listing of all courses you are currently enrolled in. You can easily jump between courses in this feature.
  • Inbox: The inbox will be where messages from your instructor will appear. Inbox messages can be sorted by your course.
  • Calendar: The calendar can be used by your instructor to indicate due dates for assignments and exam dates. The assignments and exam dates are color-coded by course.

Grades

  • Click on the course name to access your grades
  • Grades can be sorted by due date or title

Cypress College Library Resources

  • Click on your course name to access library resources
  • Here you will find a link to the "Research Basics" guide
  • You will also find a link to the "A-Z Database List". All library databases are accessible 24/7 with your Student ID number and your last name.
  • There is also a chat entry box where you can access FAQs or submit your question directly to a librarian.