Why are we transitioning to Canvas?

Being able to easily access online learning materials and assessment submissions and feedback is important when completing a course. We recognise that our previous learning platform has not been able to consistently achieve this. Based on student feedback and internal review, MHCC has decided a transition to Canvas. This transition brings several benefits and improvements:

• Better course management features. Canvas provides more robust course management tools, intuitive access to assessment marks (via gradebook), and better assessment/quiz capabilities.
• Improved collaboration. Canvas makes it easier for students and trainers to communicate and collaborate through structured discussion boards, video conferencing, and group messaging. You can also message your trainer and Student Support directly from Canvas!
• Enhanced mobile experience. Canvas has mobile apps that allow access to courses, assessments, grades, and discussions from iOS and Android devices.
• Increased accessibility. Canvas incorporates the latest accessibility standards and has improved screen reader support, keyboard navigation, multiple language options and colour contrast.

By moving to Canvas, MHCC aims to provide a more effective user experience for students with current tools, features, and integrations that can be tailored and responsive to evolving needs.

When will I receive access to Canvas?

You will be able to access Canvas from 1 March 2024. You will receive an email in this week with details of your course start date and an invitation to join your home group and begin exploring.

How will I log in to the new system?

To log in to Canvas, you will need a username and password. You will be registered to Canvas with the email address that we currently have on file, and that was used to log into Coassemble. On your first log in, you will be asked to create a password. If you would like to use a different email address, please contact Student Support as soon as possible at training@mhcc.org.au.

To access the Canvas login page, go to this URL:
https://mhcc.instructure.com

On the login page, enter your username and password. Then click the “Login” button.

If you have forgotten your password, click the “Forgot password?” link on the login page. You will be able to reset your password after entering your username and answering your security questions.

Once your password has been reset, return to the login page and log in with your new password.

You can change your password anytime by going to Account > Settings in Canvas once logged in. Be sure to choose a strong password and keep it secure. You can find more information in our Canvas User Guide here.

How do I navigate Canvas?

Getting familiar with the Canvas Dashboard is key to using the platform effectively. Here’s an overview of the main navigation features in Canvas.

The Canvas Dashboard displays your recent activity and allows you to access your courses, calendar, inbox, profile settings, notifications, and global navigation. The dashboard is the homepage you see when you log into Canvas.

• The Global Navigation menu (left sidebar) provides quick access to courses, calendars, conversations, and account settings. This menu appears on all Canvas pages when logged in.
• The Dashboard sidebar shows your recent activity and notifications. You can customize what displays here.
• The Course Navigation menu is specific to each course. It includes links to announcements, assessments, grades, and other course sections.
• The New Analytics section gives you data and insights about your learning based on your activity in Canvas.

Within your User Settings, you can customise your Canvas navigation in the following ways:

• Reorder and hide course navigation links
• Remove notifications and recent activity from the dashboard
• Change the default dashboard view

Learning to navigate Canvas intentionally based on your goals takes time. Refer to the Canvas guides and don’t hesitate to ask for help as you get started. With regular use, navigating Canvas will become second nature.

Where can I get Canvas training and support?

Canvas offers a variety of self-help resources to help you learn and master the system:

Self-help resources and video tutorials – Canvas has an extensive help documentation site with searchable help articles, step-by-step instructions, and video tutorials on every Canvas feature. You can browse or search for the exact information you need to learn a tool or process.

Contact for Student Support - If you need additional assistance, Student Support can be contacted at training@mhcc.org.au.

The Student Support team is here to help ensure a smooth transition. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of all the training resources available. We want to ensure you feel fully supported before, during, and after the launch.