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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers for commonly asked questions about Canvas. If you are looking for specific how-to information about Canvas, visit our self-service Resource Centre.

 

General Help and Support

  • How do I access Canvas?
    To access Canvas, please visit learn.ontariotechu.ca.
  • What browser should I use for Canvas?
    Canvas supports the current and previous major releases of the following browsers:

    • Chrome 102 and 103
    • Firefox 101 and 102 (Extended Releases are not supported*)
    • Edge 102 and 103
    • Respondus Lockdown Browser (supporting the latest system requirements)
    • Safari 14 and 15 (Macintosh only)

    Please see this Canvas article for further details.

    * For extended release browser versions, the warning banner still applies and displays in Canvas for any browser below the minimum version requirement.

  • Who do I contact for help with Canvas?
    Different functions in Canvas are handled by different groups on campus. For network access and password-related issues, contact the IT service desk at servicedesk@dc-ot.ca. If you are having other technical issues with Canvas (e.g., slow load times), contact the IT service desk and copy LMS@ontariotechu.ca, using our ticket generator. For information and support on how to use Canvas in your teaching, please fill out this Canvas Support Form.
  • When will I be able to access my Canvas courses?
    IT Services and the Office of the Registrar schedule the release of course shells for upcoming semesters and the subsequent publication of courses for students to access them. Professors typically receive access to their courses six weeks before the start of classes each semester. Students have access approximately two weeks before classes begin. Exact dates of course shell release changes each year.
  • How do I find my past Canvas courses?

    Past courses or concluded courses can be found by clicking on Courses, then scrolling down to All Courses. You will be able to see all courses. This is also where you can Favourite courses to appear on the Dashboard, but it should be noted that you cannot Favourite past courses.

    Please note that after 120 days, students will be unable to access their past courses.

  • Why can't I find my past courses?

    Due to record retention requirements and storage requirements at the university, students will not be able to access Canvas courses after 120 days have past since the end of the course.

    If you are an instructor who is having difficulty locating your past courses, please submit the Canvas Support Form for assistance.

  • Where can I get training for Canvas?
    The Teaching and Learning Centre provides resources and support relating to the use of Canvas and Canvas tools for teaching purposes. You can visit our Canvas Resource Centre for self-service support or fill out the TLC's Canvas Support Form online if you required additional assistance. 

Teaching With Canvas

  • How do I add a TA to my Canvas course?
    To add a TA to your Canvas course, contact your Faculty's Director of Planning and Operations. Each Faculty has their own system for these requests - the Teaching and Learning Centre does not process requests to add individuals to courses.
  • How can Canvas be used in online or hybrid courses?
    Canvas can be used to communicate with your students, post assessments, and track grades for any in person, online, or hybrid classes. As additional support for online and hybrid classes, Kaltura Virtual Classroom is integrated into Canvas to allow you to meet your students virtually.
  • I don't see what I expected to in my course. What can I do?
    If you don't see updates or changes to your course, or you don't see your courses at all, logout of Canvas, close your browser and reboot your device. If this doesn't work, you can attempt to further resolve the issue by (Chrome browser only):
    • On your computer, open Chrome.
    • At the top right, click More.
    • Click More tools Clear browsing data.
    • At the top, choose a time range. To delete everything, select All time.
    • Next to "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files," check the boxes.
    • Click Clear data.

    If these steps do not work, contact the Service Desk at servicedesk@dc-ot.ca for further support.

  • How can students communicate with me?
    Students can communicate with their instructors using the Canvas Inbox feature, which allows them to message members of the class. Depending on your notification settings, you will receive a notification in your Ontario Tech email inbox with a copy of their message. You can respond directly within that email or in Canvas Inbox. Note that Canvas Inbox is not an email tool, and some functionality you may be expecting is not available. If you wish to use more advanced messaging, you may choose to use your email inbox.
  • When can I access New Quizzes?

    New Quizzes is currently available as part of a pilot project at Ontario Tech University. If you are interested in learning more about this tool and/or piloting it in your courses, please visit the New Quizzes Hub.