Summary

This article highlights the newest features and improvements in Canvas Learning Management System, helping the USNH community  understand the latest tools to enhance online teaching and learning.

Content

User Interface Improvements

Functionality Improvements 

User Inferface Improvements 

 

RCE Resize Controls

The RCE now displays a plus (+) and minus (-) icon to allow users to resize the editor. Clicking either of these icons results in very incremental changes to the RCE box, much less convenient than the original resize icon.

Dyslexia Friendly Font

Users can enable the Dyslexia Friendly Font feature option by going to Account > Settings > scroll down to Feature Options > enable Use a dyslexia friendly font. The Canvas UI and RCE display text using OpenDyslexic font by default. This feature improves readability for users with dyslexia. 

RCE: Default Image Dimension Type

When an image is added to the Rich Content Editor, the default image dimension type is now changed to a percentage. Previously, this dimension type default was pixels.. To see Dimension Type, you must first select Custom from the Size drop down menu.

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Functionality Improvements

 

Files Redesign

As of July 19, the Canvas Files page has a new look and feel. For a short period, there will be a button to allow users to switch between the old and new user interface of the Files tool. Files Redesign introduces pagination, separate modals for Manage Permissions and Manage Usage Rights, more obvious bulk functionality, and check boxes to select specific items. Files Redesign has removed the file tree structure, the View button, drag-and-drop, and keyboard shortcuts to select all or specific files. 

Smart Search

Smart Search is a feature of Canvas that is currently in development.  Leveraging semantic algorithms and AI, the new Smart Search feature understands the context of queries, providing more accurate and relevant results without the need for traditional boolean operators or other search tools. This approach is an improvement over traditional keyword-based searches, and will enable users to swiftly and efficiently navigate the vast array of educational resources available on Canvas.​ Students and faculty can find Smart Search in the left hand navigation. 

Discussion Summaries 

You'll see the new discussion Summary feature option within courses. Faculty viewing discussion threads have an "Open Summary" button at the bottom of their first post in the discussion board. Discussion summaries use generative AI to generate a summary of key points and questions in the thread. Summaries may be refined by using the optional topics to focus on tool within the summary (e.g. “concerns about grading policy”), or be regenerated. These summaries are only available to instructors and administrators.​

 

Enhanced Rubrics 

Canvas's Enhanced Rubrics feature streamlines grading and deepens student engagement by offering a more flexible and intuitive rubric builder, improved SpeedGrader integration, and support for self-assessment. Instructors can create, edit, and share rubrics more easily with drag-and-drop tools, CSV import/export, and cross-course sharing, while students benefit from the ability to reflect on their work using the same rubric criteria. These updates promote consistency, transparency, and active learning,  Enhanced Rubrics is available as a Feature Option to faculty to turn on within their courses. Come to training or read more about Enhanced Rubrics. 

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Further Readings

AT Training Calendar 

Enhanced Rubrics

 

Need additional help?

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request. For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.