July 2024 Updates

The Canvas course templates were last updated July 2024. Major changes include:

Names of templates were changed to make the difference between the versions much clearer.
The editing experience has been significantly improved and should present much less friction when editing the template.
The syllabus template has been streamlined and updated to be more modern and clear.
The Welcome Module has been updated with new technologies, new services and resources, and optional additions.
The Instructor Resources Module has been streamlined to provide easier access to key resources.

All Updates from July 2024

A complete list of detailed updates follows:

Name changes
Template names changed for clarity.
- Canvas Course Template (Enhanced) became Canvas Course Template Plus Visual Design
- Canvas Course Template (Refreshed) became Canvas Course Template
- Information about the template versions, including a brief overview video, is available on our Canvas course template overview page.
Editing improvements
We recognize that the editing the template sometimes presented challenges, and we have worked to reduce these challenges as much as possible.
- Places that require editing have been changed from highlighting + pen icon to an image of a cardinal that can be easily deleted.
- All Instructor Editing Notes have been deleted so you do not have to do so yourself.
- Almost all instances of icons have been replaced with styles that do not use icons, making these items more flexible for any use.
- Almost all instances of columns have been replaced with styles that do not use columns, making these items more flexible for any use.
- Course homepage has been swapped for a homepage template, so you do not need to change out the homepage yourself.
Syllabus template updates
The syllabus template has been streamlined and updated for Fall 2024.
- Visual Design
  - Updated styles for: Title, subtitle, H1, H2, H3, and body text
  - Instructor Contact Information switched from table to columns
  - Updated table design for tables
- Added new header at the top of each page for the course prefix/number and semester/year
- Added link to Rice University workload calculator
- Course Goals/Learning Outcomes switched to Course Objectives
- Added tables for Course Weights and Course Grading Scale
- Simplified the Assignment and Examination Schedule
- Updated Diversity Statement
Welcome Module updates
Welcome Module has been updated, including new optional content additions.
- Course Technology Information (accessibility and data privacy statements)
  - iClicker removed, PollEverywhere added
  - Panopto added
- Plagiarism information from Ball State University Libraries added to Support Services and Resources page
- Language updated on Communication Expectations page for clarity
- Communication Expectations page moved to Welcome Module Optional Additions
- New module: Welcome Module Optional Additions
  These items can be easily added to your Welcome Module if you wish.
  - Course Statements and Policies
  - Communication Expectations (+ Example)
  - Grading and Assignments Overview (+ Example)
  - Course Objectives (+ Example)
Instructor Resources Module updates
Instructor Resources Module has been streamlined to provide easy access to important resources for your course development.
- Welcome to the Canvas Course Template page moved to Instructor Resources Module
- Canvas Commons Resources page added, providing information about resources available to you in Canvas Commons
- Content reorganized for clarity, including combining strategies and research into one page
- Eliminated redundant resources, including Organizing Course Content with the Student in Mind