All assignments for this class will be submitted through this online course site, which uses a learning management system called "Canvas." In addition to using the features of this site, you will need to make use of Microsoft Word or a similar program and be able to view videos and PDFs. You will also need to create a brief video of yourself and submit this as an assignment. See UW-IT Connect for questions on software and other technical issues related to accessing your course.

Succeeding in an Online Environment

The online environment can provide a very efficient and focused way of learning. When taking an online course for the first time, however, students may need to develop new skills and habits from those they are accustomed to in face-to-face classes. Time management becomes especially important because of the greater flexibility students have in choosing when to view the course lectures and other content. For tips on successfully participating in an online course, review the recommendations in Best Practices for Online Students.

If you need help with accessibility or disability services, contact the Disability Resources for Students (DRS) office.

Canvas Help

Those not familiar with Canvas should begin by viewing the "Canvas Overview for Students" video below. Review other resources below as needed, and return here during the quarter if you have questions on how to do something in Canvas or need technical help.

Canvas Overview for Students (7:36)

View this introductory video, particularly if you are unfamiliar with Canvas.

Getting Started

Submitting Work in Canvas

Other Features of Canvas

Technical Support from UW-IT

For technical issues you cannot resolve using the Canvas Help resources above, see:

UW-IT: Canvas Help for Students (for Canvas)
IT Connect (for software, networks, and UW Net IDs)
Troubleshooting Tips (scroll to the the bottom of this page)

If you are still unable to resolve your questions, contact UW-IT directly:

Email: help@uw.edu
Phone: 206-221-5000 (also for emergencies)
Submit a question using a Web form: Send a question to UW-IT

Mobile Devices and Learning

You can access Canvas on most smartphones and tablets, but be aware that some content may not display correctly. Smartphones and tablets can be useful for accessing instructions, checking announcements, and quick responses to discussion board posts. Longer discussion posts, writing assignments, and watching some videos may work better on a laptop or desktop computer.

See this page from Instructure for the latest updates: How can I use Canvas on my mobile device?

Troubleshooting Tips

If you're having trouble with Canvas, try these quick fixes to see if the problem is resolved:

Use a different browser. Simply switching from Internet Explorer, Safari, Chrome, etc., to another browser is sometimes all it takes.
Clear cookies. Different browsers have different directions for doing this. Search on the Internet for the steps you need to do this on your browser.
Do work offline and be ready to upload. It is always good practice to write your discussion board posts or assignments in a separate word processing program, such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into Canvas, just in case there's a problem with your Internet connection or Canvas goes down while you're working.
Still no luck? Contact UW IT at help@uw.edu or 206-221-5000. Here's more info: Canvas Help for Students.

Course Questions

Do you have questions about course content, rather than about technology? If your question would likely be applicable to others in the course, post your question in the course's General Discussion Forum. This will allow your classmates to respond, if they know the solution, or to benefit from any posted solutions.

If you prefer to ask your question privately, contact the course instructor directly.