design change on module section-toggle add a picture

Question

Hi all,

Is there a way to change the format of the module section to something less boring? It looks like an endless to-do list. Is there a toggle function we can at least be more creative ?

Ron_Bowman · Answer

@GlykeriaSkamagk -

First, I am going to assume that you are a teacher using Canvas and that you want to make your modules section look better.

There are some ways that you can use to break up the way the modules look; However, I have no idea how these methods look in the various platforms that students can use to view Canvas.   LaTex can be used in the names to add some color and formatting (although here recently I have run into some issues with it that I am still trying to figure out).  You can also add icons to the names of items in your module - there have been posts on this matter, and unfortunately, I do not have a list of them or have the information contained in them.  You can search the forum for both LaTex and icons and probably come across them.

Lastly, there are some options available to individual users through javascript or chrome extensions (I use chrome, so I know about them.  some of the extensions are on other browsers, but chrome has the most).  Obviously there are issues of trust with these options and the fact that the are per user and not something that can be applied to the course for everyone. One javascript file is "Canvas Module Filter"  Which allows you to filter what content is shown in the module - so if you want to see quizzes only, you disable the other icons and just leave the quiz icon.  Another possibility is the "Canvas Modules Organiser" extension - a related one that works well for instructors is the "Canvas Page Folders" extension.  The module organizer allows you to do some manipulations on the view you have of modules.

Just keep in mind that if you add icons or LaTex, that what you see on a computer may not be what the students see at all on other devices.

Ron

greydon · Answer

Hello @GlykeriaSkamagk

The short answer is not really. The setup is pretty straight forward aesthetically speaking. A lot of teachers will customize the home page to be more  creative and then insert different links there - one for modules. But when your students click on a particular module it would take them back to that main list. There are lots of templates and design options out there, we see it most for K12 schools. I suggest speaking with an admin at the school to explore some possible templates or layouts so you don't have to create it from scratch. If you do want to work on the design yourself, start with customizing a homepage. You can have pictures and videos and different colors, etc. Link to a particular module (can be updated weekly) or even a particular item within a module to avoid the layout of the modules altogether.