During the summer, the University changed Learning Management Systems, and has now adopted Canvas as the LMS for UMW. Though we experienced some bumps along the implementation path, things have gone relatively smoothly – and we’d like to thank everyone who has worked to migrate content to the new system and to get things working as they should. One thing that we should all remember: Canvas operates with a SaaS (Software as a Service) delivery model. This means that Canvas will be updated more frequently than we were used to with Blackboard. Sometimes, we’ll have updates on a weekly or monthly basis. While this will take getting used to for some of us, it’s the way that the software industry is evolving now. It means that we’ll be provided with fixes to problems sooner – and will have new features coming our way more frequently than we’re accustomed to. To get help with Canvas, see http://technology.umw.edu/canvas. You'll find many helpful resources, links to other sites' … [Read more...]
New Learning Management System is Here!
A big change for members of the University is the adoption of a new Learning Management System (LMS). UMW has selected Instructure’s Canvas as its next-generation LMS. Beginning with the Fall 2011, all courses taught at the University of Mary Washington will have a course shell in Canvas, and all courses will be populated with instructors and students. Early reports are that you’ll like Canvas! There are some ‘cool’ features of the product that are impressive, and it’s very easy to use. We hope that you’ll take a look at the Canvas Support Site, attend one (or more) of the Training Sessions designed to familiarize you with Canvas, and dive in to Canvas to get your Fall 2011 courses set up. As you have questions, don’t hesitate to let us know what you need. We want you to get a smooth start with this new product. Contact the Help Desk with your questions (helpdesk@umw.edu or 540-654-2255), and they’ll pass your question along to the proper member of the Canvas support team. … [Read more...]