Canvas Start-of-Term Launch Checklist

Clear, bite-sized steps to get your course ready for a new term.

Follow the list, track your progress, and keep tuning your course toward excellence.

Interactive Checklist

Progress is stored in your browser and remembered when you return. No sign-in required.

Overall Progress

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▶ ESSENTIAL — Day 1 Requirements (18 minutes to ensure seamless student access)

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Make a Canvas Request → Import previous semester materials | 2 min

Review and update syllabus → Confirm current course information | 2 min

Publish course → Enable student access | 1 min

Publish Week 1 content → Ensure immediate learning materials available | 2 min

Post welcome announcement → Set positive course tone | 2 min

Verify Canvas profile email → Ensure notifications reach correct address | 2 min

Customize notification preferences → Manage alert frequency and messages | 2 min

Install Tools → Access Hello Harvard to learn about and add available tools | 5 min

Result: Course ready for instruction.

▶ IMPORTANT — Week 1–2 Foundations (36 minutes to support semester-long functionality)

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Review and update all titles and content → Ensure current term accuracy | 10 min

Quickly add/edit due dates to all assignments → Prevent student scheduling confusion | 5 min

Review and publish remaining content → Prepare semester materials | 10 min

Verify all external links → Maintain content accessibility | 10 min

Highlight Harvard Resources in Canvas Modules → Reduce tech support demands | 1 min

Outcome: Comprehensive course structure supporting student achievement.

▶ TEACHING EXCELLENCE — Complete Experience (60–105 minutes for a complete, high-impact experience)

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Conduct comprehensive course site review → Ensure everything functions properly | 15 min

Configure navigation menu → Streamline student experience | 5 min

Review course through Student View → Verify student experience | 10 min

Clean Files area → Delete outdated materials from previous terms | 10 min

Book 1-to-1 consultation with ITG → Brainstorm updates and improvements for your course site | 45 min

Check News in Canvas & Tools → Review feature updates for the tools you use | 10 min

Remediate site for accessibility compliance → Ensure universal design compliance | 10 min

Achievement: Exemplary course meeting highest teaching standards.