JCU Canvas Student Guide

Introduction to JCU Canvas

James Cook University (JCU) uses Canvas as its online learning management system. Canvas is designed to provide students with a seamless and engaging learning experience. This guide is intended to help students navigate and utilize the features of JCU Canvas effectively.

Canvas is a cloud-based platform, which means that students can access their courses and learning materials from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have a stable internet connection. The platform is also mobile-friendly, allowing students to access their courses on their smartphones or tablets.

Navigating JCU Canvas

To get started with JCU Canvas, students need to log in to their account using their JCU username and password. Once logged in, students will see their Dashboard, which displays all their current and past courses.

• Each course is represented by a card that includes the course name, code, and image.
• Students can customize their Dashboard by rearranging the course cards or hiding unused courses.
• The global navigation menu is located on the left side of the screen and provides access to various Canvas features, such as Accounts, Courses, and Help.

Course Structure and Navigation

Each course in JCU Canvas has its own unique structure and navigation.

When students click on a course card, they will be taken to the Course Home Page, which provides an overview of the course, including the course syllabus, announcements, and upcoming assignments.

Course Component	Description
Modules	Organized learning materials, such as readings, videos, and quizzes.
Assignments	Tasks and activities that students must complete to demonstrate their understanding of the course material.
Discussions	Online forums where students can engage with their peers and instructors, share ideas, and ask questions.

Submitting Assignments and Participating in Discussions

JCU Canvas provides students with various tools to submit assignments and participate in discussions.

• Students can upload files or record audio and video to submit assignments.
• For discussions, students can create new threads or reply to existing threads to engage with their peers.
• Instructors may also use peer review tools, which allow students to review and provide feedback on each other's work.

📝 Note: It is essential to carefully read and follow the assignment instructions and submission guidelines to ensure that students submit their work correctly and on time.

Accessing Grades and Feedback

JCU Canvas allows students to access their grades and feedback in real-time.

Students can view their Gradebook to see their overall grade, as well as the grades for individual assignments and quizzes.

• Instructors may also provide feedback on assignments, which can be accessed through the Gradebook or the assignment submission page.
• Students can use this feedback to reflect on their learning and identify areas for improvement.

Getting Help and Support

JCU Canvas provides students with various resources to get help and support.

• The Help menu is located in the global navigation menu and provides access to Canvas guides, tutorials, and support resources.
• Students can also contact their instructors or teaching staff for help with course-specific issues or concerns.
• In addition, JCU offers student support services, such as academic support, counseling, and technical support, to help students succeed in their studies.

As students become more familiar with JCU Canvas, they will discover more features and tools to enhance their learning experience. By leveraging these resources, students can take control of their learning, stay organized, and achieve their academic goals.