Canvas Announcements
It took me a long time to figure out what to do with Canvas Announcements so I'd like to use this post to share the changes in my thinking over multiple semesters.
✉️ At first:
I didn't use Announcements. I used Canvas Inbox for messaging the entire class when I felt like it.
📰 Then:
I used Announcements to share recent news articles and social media posts that were relevant to the course content. I might also use Announcements to share updates to the syllabus or to clarify assignment expectations.
📅 And then:
I started to schedule Announcements. Students could expect to receive a Canvas Announcement from me at the same time each week. I shared goal dates for the next two weeks along with relevant news articles and social media posts.
😎 Now:
I use the Announcements kind of like a weekly newsletter with reminders, upcoming goal dates, and relevant news stories. I still use the Delay posting feature, and now I click the box to Allow Users to comment. At the end of the Announcement, I add a quick community building activity or poll. Here are some of the prompts I used last semester in Announcements.
- Post a gif that sums up 2020
- Post a photo of your pets (or any cute animal photo!)
- What is your most overused emoji when texting?
- What are you reading now?
- What is you favorite fall treat to eat or drink?
I'm really happy with my Canvas Announcements Makeover. Mostly I like that my students can rely on receiving consistent communication from me at the same time each week. I also loved getting to know my students better through the fun prompts.
Kristin Patrick, Technology Integration Coach
How have you used Canvas Announcements?
Comment below.
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