Canvas is a modern and intuitive Virtual Learning Environment, provided by Instructure, an educational technology company founded in 2008, ​and will be replacing Blackboard from August 1st 2020. 

Our contract with Blackboard ended on the 31st July 2020. This platform is no longer be available to staff and students and all module content that was previously on Blackboard should now be delivered through Canvas.

Everyone involved in learning and teaching at all Newcastle campuses is potentially affected by the change to Canvas. Those who will be most affected are staff and students who previously used Blackboard as the interface and navigation is different to what you are used to.

Canvas offers all of our students and staff a 24/7 helpdesk service which should be the first point of call for your 'How do I?' questions and for any technical support. This is accessed via the 'Help' option in Canvas and you can contact them via live chat, phone or email. If they are unable to help, your call will be referred to the Newcastle University Service Desk.

Please note any ReCap, Turnitin, NU ePortfolio or login queries should still be submitted directly to the Newcastle Service Desk. 

The Staff Orientation and Student Orientation online training courses are regularly updated and guide you through the key areas of Canvas. These allow you to learn at your own pace and check your understanding.

For staff and students, Instructure provide a vast library of Canvas video and step by step guides which are available on the Canvas Community https://community.canvaslms.com/community/answers/guides/canvas-guide.

The Digital Learning website includes Newcastle specific guides for staff as well as Case Studies and examples of effective practice from across the University.

Staff training webinars are also available and the full list of sessions available, including dropin sessions, can be found on the Digital Learning website.