Introduction to Canvas for Students

Canvas is an online learning management system (LMS) where you can manage your classes, submit assignments, and communicate with your teachers. Canvas can be accessed on a computer or phone, but a computer is strongly recommended. 

When you log in to Canvas, you will automatically see links to the courses in which you are currently enrolled. Most courses become available on or a few days before the first day of class and will close two weeks after the end of the semester. If you do not see a course in Canvas, please reach out to your instructor first, as the course may not have been published yet. You will only have access to your course pages during the current term, so be sure to download and save any materials you want to keep for future reference.

Canvas and the other tools you will need at William James College are accessible through OneLogin.

Watch this video to learn how to:

• Access Canvas using OneLogin
  • You can also access Canvas through the Canvas Student App on a mobile device
• Identify the key areas where to find your courses, upcoming tasks and help
• Update your profile photo and pronouns for your account
• Manage notifications
• Verify your email

Each course will be designed differently, but most aspects are the same across courses

Watch this video to learn how to:

• Access a course from the main dashboard
• Find the course syllabus
• Navigate the site using modules

If you want to learn more about navigating Canvas, check out this tutorial video.

Watch this video to learn about basic assignment navigation.

Canvas has articles on this topic as well: How do I submit an online assignment?

If you have questions about navigating your Canvas site, first check out the Canvas Guides for Students. You can also access these guides by clicking the Help icon in the Global Navigation Menu on the far left of your Canvas screen.

If you still need help, please contact the Help Desk by either emailing Support@williamjames.edu, calling 617-327-6777 ext. 1600, or visiting the IT office on the ground floor.