Virginia State University announced the new Canvas launch on August 8, 2024. Canvas replaced Blackboard at VSU in order to better facilitate the teaching and learning process.
The university determined it was time for a change after utilizing Blackboard as its academic management system for years. With the introduction of the new Canvas management system, students will benefit from enhanced learning opportunities, improved academic performance, and effective communication.
While some may find this an inconvenience, some instructors and students believe that this new feature actually improves their educational experience.
Professor Travis Wolfrey, an adjunct professor in the Mass Communications Department, has proficiently transitioned from Blackboard to Canvas. Wolfrey has previous experience working with Canvas from his job as a creative project manager at Virginia Commonwealth University. His experience has been great.
“It’s been a benefit for me and my students,” Wolfrey said.
Dr. Serena Reese who has been working for the university for sports psychology for over 20 years discusses how the institution held training sessions on Canvas throughout this past spring semester and the summer months.
“The videos that showed actual step by step pages in Canvas were helpful and reinforced my learning experience outside of the workshops. The additional support of the technology department has also contributed to easing my comfort level of learning how to navigate Canvas during this transition process,” Dr. Reese said.
Because of the thorough, step-by-step directions that are offered, Dr. Reese possesses a deep affection for Canvas over Blackboard
“I prefer Canvas because the methods of instruction used in Canvas are presented in a similar pattern, using drop down menus that provide user-friendly choices. The similarity in choice selection in the menus has been easy to work with and maintain as references to assist me in setting up my courses,” Dr. Reese said.
Senior Tiara Pritchett has also enjoyed the transition to Canvas.
“Canvas is more organized than Blackboard. I like the layout of Canvas and how modules are sectioned off by weeks,” Pritchett said. “It is very detailed on Canvas and the outline of it presents things such as your dashboard, calendar, and upcoming assignments. There is also a feature on Canvas where it allows me to have access to read information about my professor.”
While some may argue that both Canvas and Blackboard offer useful tools to ensure that professors and students have an efficient academic year, Dr. Reese has noticed certain issues with students’ ability to use the site proficiently. She took the time out to walk students through it.
“I required all students in class to sign on to Canvas using their devices of choice (including their mobile devices) and showed them how to access the Canvas for Students link provided by VSU. The students were unwavering in sharing their knowledge of navigating Canvas with their peers. I was impressed with their willingness to assist each other,” Dr. Reese said.
Despite the fact that this new Canvas launch has a lot of advantages, there are certain drawbacks to the new feature.
Graduate student Desaray Garner finds the new launch challenging and hindering her learning experience.
“Blackboard was easier to navigate,” Garner said. “I have not been able to download the app on my devices. I would have to keep going to the VSU website to use Canvas on my personal laptop.”
Even though Garner prefers Blackboard, she notes that Canvas does have some better qualities.
“The only thing I find more effective or beneficial for managing courses is the different color fonts for each class,” Garner said.
“You could also upload a picture of yourself as an icon so students and other faculty could easily know your face when contacting them. I think those are some advantages within the new launch.”
The shift from Blackboard to Canvas marks a new chapter for VSU students and faculty.
