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Multimodal Learning
(509) 963-3294
online@cwu.edu

Canvas Technical Support 24/7

CWU has online resources and services for students to support their learning.

Here are the top five things you need to successfully participate in your online courses:

1. Communication and Collaboration

  • Engage with your classmates via instructor-provided discussion boards.

  • Communicate regularly with your instructor via Canvas Messenger or CWU Outlook.

  • Class lectures may be pre-recorded or presented live via web conferencing (Blackboard Ultra, etc.)

  • Use video conferencing like Blackboard Ultra, or Skype to hold virtual study group sessions with classmates.

  • Take advantage of your instructor's online office hours as offered.

2. Time Commitment

  • It is important to login often to check the syllabus, calendar, and announcements in your Canvas courses.

  • Daily check-ins of your Canvas and CWU Outlook email is essential to class participation.

  • Expect to spend as much time, if not more time, engaging with your online class as you would in person.

  • Refer to your course syllabus for how many hours of coursework per week is recommended.

3. Internet and Technology Access

The following technical requirements are essential for studying online:

  • A high-speed internet connection

  • A supported operating system:

    • Windows 7 or higher (Windows 10 recommended)

    • MAC OS X 10.9 or higher (10.13 High Sierra recommended)

A supported and updated internet browser:

Internet Explorer/Edge is not a preferred browser alternative

Recommended Hardware:

  • Speakers

  • Microphone

  • Webcam

Google Chromebooks are not recommended for use with online courses

Visit this page for more details regarding online learning technology requirements.

If you do not have the required technology and access, be proactive in communicating this to your instructor and in finding solutions.

4. Canvas

  • Ensure that you have access to Canvas

  • Canvas Support Resource

  • Canvas Overview for students

  • Canvas Video Guides

  • Mobile Canvas Access:

    • Canvas Student: Canvas Student allows students to access their courses and groups using a mobile device. Students can submit assignments, participate in discussions, view grades and course materials. The app also provides access to course calendars, To-Do items, notifications, and Conversations messages. Download the Canvas Student app on Android and iOS devices.

  • Canvas courses need to be published in order for you to see them. If you cannot see your course on your Canvas dashboard or Courses menu, reach out to your instructor to make sure it has been published.

5. Cloud Resources

Technology Guides

Familiarity with the technology your instructors and classmates will expect you to use for online class participation and collaboration is a must for student success. These guides are intended to be comprehensive and supportive of your online learning across disciplines and classes.

Additional Resources