The following are descriptions and links for sample Canvas course layouts. Each sample also includes links to templates in Commons for those who would like their courses to look like the samples.
We also have an Online/Hybrid Course template. Instead of starting your online Canvas course from scratch, you can import this template and edit the pre-made materials for your course. The template also links to tips related to elements of planning, preparing and teaching online. We recommend applying this template before adding any content to your course.
Course Sample 1
This “Minimalist” Canvas course has two areas available to students: Home page and Grades. The Home page is set to display the Syllabus tool. Navigation to course materials is controlled via links to weekly overview pages in the syllabus and additional links on those overview pages.
This layout is useful for courses in which the instructor wants to share grades, the syllabus, and a limited amount of content. It is not recommended for courses with complex structures.
Course Sample 2
This Canvas course has four content areas available to students: Home page, Announcements, Library Reserves, and Grades. The Home page is set as the Modules page, where you can share files, pages, assignments, and more.
This layout is useful for courses in which the instructor wants students to have quick access to content. The modules could be changed from sequential weekly modules to sequential modules by topic/day/etc., non-sequential modules, or a combination of the two. This layout would suit both simple and complex course structures.
Course Sample 3
This Canvas course has six content areas available to students: Home page, Announcements, Syllabus tool, Modules, Library Reserves, and Grades. The Home page is set as a custom page with an embedded course banner, course description, and buttons leading to individual modules.
This layout is useful for courses in which the instructor wants to create a custom landing page that can be used to express the character of a course or provide information to help students navigate the course space. The navigation buttons on the page could lead to specific modules, important content that students need to frequently access, or any number of materials or locations. The modules could be changed from sequential modules by unit to sequential modules by topic/week/etc., non-sequential modules, or a combination of the two. This layout would suit both simple and complex course structures and would be ideal for extremely complex course structures.
