Canvas Ut Tyler Essentials: Get Started

Welcome to the University of Texas at Tyler, where we are committed to providing our students with the best possible educational experience. As a student at UT Tyler, you will have access to a wide range of resources and tools to help you succeed in your academic pursuits. One of the most important tools you will use is Canvas, our online learning management system. In this article, we will provide you with an overview of the essential features and functions of Canvas, as well as some tips and tricks to help you get started.
Introduction to Canvas

Canvas is a powerful and intuitive online learning platform that allows you to access your courses, submit assignments, participate in discussions, and track your progress. With Canvas, you can access your courses from anywhere, at any time, as long as you have an internet connection. Whether you are a traditional student or a non-traditional student, Canvas provides you with the flexibility and convenience you need to succeed in your academic pursuits.
Navigating the Canvas Dashboard
The Canvas dashboard is the central hub of the platform, where you can access all of your courses, assignments, and other important information. To navigate the dashboard, simply click on the course you want to access, and you will be taken to the course homepage. From there, you can access assignments, discussions, quizzes, and other course materials. You can also use the global navigation menu to access other important features, such as your inbox, calendar, and account settings.
Some of the key features of the Canvas dashboard include:
- Course Cards: These provide a quick overview of each course, including the course name, instructor, and due dates for upcoming assignments.
- Recent Activity: This section shows you a list of recent activity in your courses, including new assignments, discussions, and announcements.
- To-Do List: This feature allows you to keep track of upcoming assignments and deadlines, so you can stay on top of your work.
Accessing Course Materials
Once you have accessed your course, you can begin to explore the course materials. These may include assignments, discussions, quizzes, and other activities designed to help you learn and engage with the course content. You can access course materials by clicking on the relevant link in the course navigation menu.
Some of the key types of course materials you may encounter include:
- Syllabus: This document outlines the course objectives, schedule, and expectations.
- Assignments: These may include quizzes, exams, papers, and other activities designed to assess your learning.
- Discussions: These provide a space for you to interact with your instructor and peers, ask questions, and share ideas.
Submitting Assignments
To submit an assignment in Canvas, simply click on the assignment link and follow the instructions. You may be required to upload a file, complete a quiz, or participate in a discussion. Be sure to carefully read the assignment instructions and requirements, and plan your time accordingly to ensure you can submit your work on time.
Assignment Type | Submission Instructions |
---|---|
File Upload | Click on the assignment link and select the file you want to upload. |
Quiz | Click on the quiz link and complete the quiz questions. |
Discussion | Click on the discussion link and post your response. |

Tracking Progress and Grades
Canvas provides a range of tools to help you track your progress and grades, including the gradebook and course analytics. You can access these features by clicking on the relevant link in the course navigation menu.
Some of the key features of the gradebook include:
- Assignment Grades: These show you the grade you received for each assignment.
- Course Grade: This shows you your overall course grade, based on your performance on assignments and other activities.
- Grade Histogram: This provides a visual representation of your grades, so you can see how you are performing in the course.
Getting Help and Support
If you need help or support with Canvas, there are a range of resources available to you. These include the Canvas support website, the UT Tyler IT help desk, and your instructor. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions or concerns - we are here to help you succeed.
What is Canvas, and how do I access it?
+Canvas is the online learning management system used by the University of Texas at Tyler. You can access Canvas by going to the UT Tyler website and clicking on the Canvas link.
How do I submit an assignment in Canvas?
+To submit an assignment in Canvas, simply click on the assignment link and follow the instructions. You may be required to upload a file, complete a quiz, or participate in a discussion.
How do I track my progress and grades in Canvas?
+You can track your progress and grades in Canvas by using the gradebook and course analytics features. These provide a range of tools and visualizations to help you understand your performance in the course.