Recent Updates

Spring 2026

• The Files area in Canvas has been redesigned to improve accessibility and enhance search functionality. The updated interface makes it easier to locate and manage course files. Some features of the Classic look are not yet available in the new version. You can use the button at the top of the Files page to return to the Classic view if you prefer the previous experience.

• The rubrics feature has recently been updated. This guide reflects the latest changes and provides step-by-step instructions for using the current tools.

• Group Setup and Import: You can also import groups using a formatted Excel (CSV) file, making it easy to assign students in bulk. This is especially helpful if you need to set up multiple group sets quickly throughout the quarter, saving time compared to manual assignment.

• New Quiz Features

  • Flexible Assessment Options: Create graded or ungraded quizzes. You can build survey-style activities by assigning zero points or using non-graded questions.

  • Enhanced Question Types: Choose from a wider variety of question formats, including multiple choice, essay, matching, categorization, and more.

  • Text Blocks: Add instructions, context, or media directly within a quiz to guide students.

  • Improved Question Management: Use item banks to organize and reuse questions across quizzes.

Past Updates

July 2024 - Instructure enforced a redesign of Announcements and Discussions, retaining legacy functionality but with a new look and additional features:

• Split screen to view the original post and its replies side by side

• Anonymous discussions (The feature is set to "off" by default.)

• Sort by date posted or filer posts to “All,” “Unread,” and “Read.”

• Search tool

• Mention a person by using @ when replying to a post. Students who have their Canvas notification turned on for “New Mention" will receive an email message.

• Role labels for Instructor or Student posts

December 2022 - Canvas has added drag and drop in the text editor, an Icon maker in the text editor, and the ability to schedule page publication.

If you are a student looking for support for using Canvas, please check the Student Resources page.