Navigating Canvas at Saddleback College: A Comprehensive Guide

Canvas is a user-friendly learning management system (LMS) that Saddleback College uses to deliver online courses and supplement traditional classroom instruction. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to use Canvas effectively, ensuring a smooth and productive learning experience.

What is Canvas?

Canvas is a learning management system known for its user-friendly online environment. You will be using it to participate in your online classes. Should a course require the use of the Canvas software, students will automatically be added within 24 hours of the registration date. The course(s) will become available by the date listed in the class schedule unless otherwise notified by the instructor. Students will be able to access their course(s) anytime during the day or night from any computer with an internet connection.

Getting Started with Canvas

Initial Access and Login

Know how to login to Canvas. The login box is used by Saddleback and Irvine Valley Students.
Re-set/create a new password first. Create a new password and type it in TWICE.
Save your Password!
Log in to Canvas with your USER NAME and the password you just created. You will see your Dashboard.

Recommended Browser and Device

Best Browser: Be sure to use GOOGLE CHROME as your browser as it's the most compatible with CANVAS. If you're continuously using CANVAS, it will automatically update to the most current version. To download GOOGLE CHROME.
Device: If you are using an iOS/android phone or a tablet (rather than a desktop or laptop computer), watch the video about using Canvas on a mobile device. If you are using an iOS/android phone or an iPad, download the CANVAS STUDENT APP from your device.

Important: A student should never use a mobile device as their only way to access a course. Canvas supports a limited set of features on mobile devices.

Helpful Resources

FAQs: Consult helpful CANVAS frequently asked questions.
Be patient and take the time to learn CANVAS.

Essential Canvas Features and Functions

1. Canvas Overview

View the CANVAS OVERVIEW video. Watch this short video to familiarize yourself with the platform's layout and basic functionalities.

2. User Settings and Profile

Via your USER SETTINGS, learn how to include your profile picture, display name and more. Update your profile to help instructors and classmates identify you.

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3. Notification Settings

Update your NOTIFICATION SETTINGS. Configure your notification preferences to stay informed about important announcements, assignment deadlines, and grades.

4. Communication Tools

Learn how to communicate with your instructor & classmates For the INBOX OVERVIEW.

5. Discussions

For the DISCUSSIONS OVERVIEW. Learn how to participate in a discussion.

6. Assignments

View the ASSIGNMENTS OVERVIEW. Learn how to SUBMIT AN ASSIGNMENT.

7. Confer Zoom

Read this CONFER ZOOM Overview to learn about ZOOM. Review the Zoom Guide!(For classes meeting LIVE in real-time only.)

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Technical Requirements for Online Courses

Since your course will be accessed through your computer and internet connection, it is important that you have the proper computer configuration. Outlined below are the basic technical requirements (minimum and recommended) for participation in an online course.

Minimum Computer Configuration

Canvas only requires an operating system that can run the latest compatible web browsers. Your computer operating system should be kept up to date with the latest recommended security updates and upgrades.

Latest Version of Plugins
- Adobe Reader
- Flash
- Java
Course-specific plug-ins
Course-specific software
Course-specific hardware

Some online courses will have additional technical requirements - please check the individual course link (see course schedule) or contact the instructor for details.

Additional Resources and Support

Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus

All students are entitled to download and install Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus on their personal computer.

Disclaimer

This site may contain links to web sites not administered by Saddleback College or one of its divisions, departments, units or programs.

Important Policies

Saddleback College prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy in the administration of its educational policies, personnel practices, and college programs. The college, by law, cannot engage in any such discriminatory activity. Grievance procedures exist for students, employees, and job applicants. Information regarding formal complaints is on file in the office of the Vice Chancellor for Human Resources and the office of the Vice President for Student Services which maintains grievance procedure information for students. Any questions concerning discrimination may be directed. Consistent with that policy, disability accommodations will be provided as needed for program access, upon request. Department of Education.

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