Using Canvas

Below is a brief overview for getting started in Canvas:

Check Access to Canvas

First, you will want to ensure that you have access to Canvas. You can access Canvas by opening a browser window and entering https://unt.instructure.com/ in the address bar. Your user name for logging in to Canvas is your EUID (Enterprise User ID). If you have problems using your EUID or do not know your EUID, contact the UNT IT Helpdesk.

In some cases, if you experience difficulty logging in, it may be due to your computer not meeting certain technical requirements. You may be required to install additional software or make changes to settings on your machine in order to use Canvas. To determine the technical requirements to use Canvas, visit the CLEAR Canvas Technical Requirements page. (Pro Tip: Save this link to share with your students who may experience similar difficulties!)

For any other log-in difficulties, please contact the DSI CLEAR Faculty Support Help Desk at 940-369-7394 or via email at clearhelp@unt.edu.

Section(s) and Content Check

Check to be sure all sections you are teaching exist in Canvas. You may combine sections into one course space or teach them as separate sections. Requests for course combinations must be made before the beginning of the semester. Email clearhelp@unt.edu or call 940-369-7394 to request to have sections combined.

If you are planning to use content from another instructor's course, then an email from the instructor or department chair granting permission must be sent to clearhelp@unt.edu.

If you do not see your sections or have other general questions, please contact the DSI CLEAR Faculty Support Helpdesk at 940-369-7394 or via email at clearhelp@unt.edu.

Courses are created in Canvas 90 days prior to the start of term pending it meets the requirement of at least 2 students enrolled.

Ensure Student Access

Students will be automatically uploaded one week prior to the first day of the semester; however, they will not be able to access the content until the day the semester starts and you have published the course. If you want students to be able to access the content prior to the first day of the semester, you can change your course access dates in the Settings menu.

If students are not uploaded before the first class day, please contact the DSI CLEAR Faculty Support Helpdesk at 940-369-7394 or via email at clearhelp@unt.edu.

Complete Start of Semester Tasks

See the CLEAR Support Page, Canvas Start-of-the-Semester Tasks, for an overview of recommended steps instructors can take during the beginning of the semester to make Canvas use easier and more efficient.

Review Canvas Help Resources

Finally, you will need familiarize yourself with the technical assistance and resources available to you for using Canvas.

  • Be sure to save the CLEAR Canvas support page for quick access to Canvas resources.
  • You might also want to save this link for the Canvas Instructor Guide from Canvas.
  • You can also easily and quickly search the Canvas guides for specific questions and/or issues.
  • Make an appointment to meet with a CLEAR Instructional Consultant. The primary role of the Instructional Consultant (IC) is to assist UNT faculty with the development of quality courses. 
  • Become familiar with the CLEAR Teaching Commons site which is regularly updated with articles, podcasts, and other resources related to teaching and course design.

Remember, you can always get direct help by calling the DSI CLEAR Faculty Support Help Desk.

Please note that technical support for students using Canvas is provided by the UNT IT Helpdesk. Students may contact the UNT IT Helpdesk by phone at 940-565-2324 or by email at helpdesk@unt.edu. Hours of operation are posted on the UNT IT Helpdesk website at https://techsupport.unt.edu/faculty-staff

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