The TELT team is bringing you the latest news about technological innovations for learning and teaching at the University of Twente. In this edition, we're presenting you with some exciting new features for Canvas that support online learning.
Build media-rich learning elements with H5P
The TELT team is currently running a pilot with a tool called H5P (short for 'HTML5 Package'). With the plug-in, teaching staff will be able to build their own media-rich learning elements and add them to their Canvas course. Right now the tool is being tested by a small group of teachers. If the pilot is successful, H5P is expected to become available for general use at the university.
Host a virtual classroom with BigBlueButton
The University of Twente recently concluded a contract with BigBlueButton, a virtual classroom functionality for Canvas. This means that your recordings can now be stored or downloaded for future reference. In addition to that, there's an option to use break-out rooms to group students for team collaboration. With the integration of BigBlueButton in Canvas, hosting online video lectures, distance office hours and virtual student groups has never been easier.
Integrate instructional videos of Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a non-profit educational organization that offers small instructional videos that explain specific concepts in a clear way. Different subject areas are covered, such as Math, Computing and Science & Engineering. From now on, it’s possible to integrate Khan Academy videos within Canvas pages very easily.
continuous development of Canvas
In the world of digitalization, new developments will go on continuously. Canvas plays an important role in this, since it’s is an open system that enables third party development of plug-ins (apps). Therefore, the TELT team will continue working on the development of Canvas, in close cooperation with Functional Management and the E-learning specialists and teachers in the faculties.
our main focus
- Expand the capabilities of Canvas to support teachers and students.
- Use advanced features to benefit from all Canvas’ facilities.
- Monitor developments and trends, as well as new needs and wishes of teachers.
- Introduce new features to support different educational formats, such as blended learning and distance education.
More information
For more information on the continuous development of Canvas, please contact telt@utwente.nl (www.utwente.nl/telt), or look at the details below to contact the E-learning specialist of your faculty. For general Canvas support, please contact Canvas support.
