The University of Adelaide
The University of Adelaide is the first in the country to deploy Cloud-based learning management system, Canvas.
Canvas will be fully deployed by the start of 2017 and will be used by all courses at the University.
It replaces Blackboard, which has been used by the University for the past 14 years.
Canvas is said to foster innovation in teaching by staff and create a deeper level of student engagement. It enables students to interact with their teaching and learning experience via smartphones and tablets, receive notifications, submit assignments, receive grades, and conduct peer assessment and group work.
Additionally, it introduces reporting and analytics of student achievement and engagement with the subject and uses digital learning materials produced through the University's highly successful Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) program.
“This is a bold and innovative move by the University to deepen student engagement and ultimately improve student learning outcomes,” said The University of Adelaide vice-chancellor, Philippa Levy.
“Students will benefit greatly from this change. Through this easy-to-use and intuitive technology, we will enhance face-to-face teaching, as well as integrate use of the system into active and collaborative learning, which is central to the University’s distinctive small group discovery experience. Our adoption of Canvas signals the University of Adelaide’s aim to become a leader in best-practice learning design among Australian Universities.”
According to the University, students and staff showed their strong preference for the Canvas system during a consultation period last year, citing its ease of use and high level of functionality and interactivity. Around 3000 students were involved in assessing the various systems being considered.
The University of Adelaide chief information officer, Mark Gregory, said, “We are thrilled to be bringing these digital environments to our students. Canvas’ adaptable and extensible properties will ensure this is an evolving learning ecosystem, helping to best position the University now and into the future.”
