Project Overview

We are thrilled to share that Cecil College has decided to make the switch from Blackboard to Canvas as our primary Learning Management System (LMS). After conducting a thorough review of various LMS options, we have determined that Canvas is the best fit for our faculty and students. Our transition to Canvas will occur over three semesters, with full implementation for all courses expected in fall 2024.

Beginning in August 2022 and ending in March 2023, we conducted a comprehensive LMS review. During our Vision and Planning phase, the Instructional Technology committee, faculty learning management needs assessment surveys, and LMS demonstrations for all faculty were all engaged to ensure a comprehensive assessment of our needs.

The decision to switch to Canvas was based on several factors, including improved user experience, mobile accessibility, integration with other tools, and robust analytics and reporting features. Canvas provides an intuitive and modern interface that is easier to navigate, leading to increased engagement and better learning outcomes for both faculty and students. Additionally, Canvas offers a mobile app that allows students to access course materials from anywhere, along with seamless integration with a variety of educational tools and platforms, including Google Apps for Education, Microsoft Office 365, and Echo 360. The analytics and reporting features of Canvas are also robust, allowing faculty to track student progress and make informed decisions about course content and teaching methods.

The implementation of Canvas will be coordinated by Catalyst - The Center for Teaching and Learning, Instructional Design and Technology, in close collaboration with the office of Information Technology. We look forward to the benefits that Canvas will bring to our faculty and students and are excited to see the positive impact it will have on teaching and learning at our college.

Dr. Dana Gullo, Associate Dean for Teaching, Learning, and Technology, and Julie Paulus, Instructional Technologist, are available to answer any questions you may have about this transition.

Our Timeline

  • Late Summer 2023: Students will have access to the student training: Passport to Canvas
  • Fall 2023: Volunteer instructors pilot Canvas courses
  • Spring 2024: Phased departmental transition
  • Summer 2024: Phased departmental transition
  • Fall 2024: All courses are in Canvas

Frequently Asked Questions for Students

What types of Canvas training will be available for students?

Passport to Canvas, webinars, and class visits.

When is the last day for students to access Blackboard courses and course content?

The last day Blackboard will be available for classes is the end of the Spring 2024 semester.

What will happen to my courses housed in Blackboard once access is turned off?

In case students require access to course content that has not been transferred to Canvas, they are required to make a written request to their instructor or the department chair.

I have never used Canvas before. How can I familiarize myself with the layout and features of Canvas before my next class begins?

We understand that switching to a new LMS can be daunting for faculty and students. To ensure a smooth transition to Canvas, we will provide various training opportunities for both groups. Faculty members will have access to various Canvas training resources, including webinars, workshops, on-demand asynchronous tutorials, and one-on-one consultations with the Instructional Technology team. These resources will help faculty members learn how to use Canvas effectively, incorporate new teaching strategies, and improve student engagement. Additionally, students will have access to Canvas resources and tutorials to learn how to navigate the new system, submit assignments, and engage in online discussions. Our goal is to ensure that both faculty and students have the tools and support they need to succeed in the new Canvas environment.

How do I log into my Cecil College Canvas account?

Option 1: Use the MyCecil Portal
Go to https://my.cecil.edu and click on the Canvas link found under Quick Links.
Option 2: Use Canvas LMS direct URL
Go to https://cecil.instructure.com and enter your Microsoft username and password. After logging in, you will see your Canvas Dashboard.

Who do I contact if I have difficulty logging into my Canvas account?

You can contact the IT Help Desk in one of the following ways:

Contact

Catalyst - The Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) offers a rich collection of pedagogical resources, Learning Management System (LMS) assistance, encouragement, and quality teaching and learning support. Catalyst's professional development activities, services, collaborations, and discussions are designed to invite, value, and promote faculty excellence in teaching.

The Center for Teaching and Learning offers a wide range of educational activities, including:

  • Curriculum innovation
  • Online Education
  • Quality Matters Course Certification
  • Technology-enhanced learning
  • ADA Accessibility training and resources
  • Canvas support

For more information or assistance, email IDT@nullcecil.edu.