Canvas Global Navigation
The Global Navigation Menu is located on the left side of every page in Canvas. Global Navigation links provide quick access to frequently used Canvas features. The first step toward setting up Canvas and your Canvas course is understanding the Global Navigation and your Account Settings. If you sidestep this important step, Canvas will not work properly for you.
For General Information on Global Navigation: [+] Canvas Guide on Global Navigation
Use the information below to learn more about the Canvas Global Navigation Menu. Click through each item for a description, as well as links to learn more.
▶ Denotes a “TO DO ITEM”
The Account link provides access to the following items.
PROFILE
In the profile you can update your name, biography, personal links, and profile picture.
▶ Make sure to update your profile picture
[+] Canvas Guide on How to Edit the User Profile
USER SETTINGS
User settings allow you to make changes to your name and defalt email among other items. Most importantly, you want to add your OU alias email to your Canvas account.
EXAMPLE
OU Default Email:
Boomer.The.Horse-1@ou.edu
Alias Email:
boomer@ou.edu
▶ Make sure to add your OU ALIAS EMAIL to your account so that you can correspond outside of Canvas
[+] Canvas Guide on User Settings
NOTIFICATION PREFERENCES
Canvas allows you to change its default notification settings. This includes
- what you are notified about
- how and when you are notified
▶ Update your notification settings
[+] Canvas Guide on Notifications
The Dashboard is the landing page for Canvas and shows information about your current classes.
▶ Edit what appears on your Dashboard in “Courses.”
[+] Canvas Guide on Using the Dashboard
The Courses link allows you to see your courses, including those not listed on the Dashboard.
▶ Click on “All Courses” to view ALL your courses. To “Favorite” a course so that it appears on the Dashboard, select the star next to its title.
[+] Canvas Guide on Customizing Course List
[+] Canvas Guide on How to View all Your Courses
Groups provides quick access to all the groups from your current courses.
The Calendar allows you to view all of your course dates in one place.
[+] Canvas Guide on How to Use the Calendar
All messaging for Canvas is accessed through the Inbox.
▶ If you want to email your class, this is the place to go.
Note: The Inbox is also referred to as "Conversations"
Commons provides access to Canvas assets posted by others.
This is for more advanced users.
[+] Canvas Information on Commons
Help provides quick and easy access to Canvas Guides, Chat Support, and Phone Support.
▶ Get involved in the Canvas Community! Learn from other users. To access the Community: Canvas Community
[+] Canvas Guide on Help (for Instructors)
