Canvas Resources and Spring Opportunities
This message was shared with faculty and professional staff members on February 23, 2026.
Dear Colleagues,
As Drexel transitions to Canvas as our new learning management system (LMS), we are pleased to share resources and opportunities designed to support faculty in the months ahead.
Beginning in the Fall 2026 term, Canvas will serve as Drexel’s default LMS for all courses. Now is the ideal time to become familiar with Canvas, and we encourage faculty to consider teaching at least one course in Canvas this spring or summer to ensure a smooth transition.
To support simple course setup and a consistent student experience, the LMS Implementation Task Force has developed a Drexel Canvas Course Template, available now in Canvas Commons. Additionally, the Teaching and Learning Center is offering several upcoming events and resources, listed below.
10-Day Canvas Challenge
Monday, March 9 – Friday, March 13
Monday, March 16 – Friday, March 20
Participants will review recommended tutorials and complete brief daily tasks to actively build a Canvas course. The challenge is designed to gradually build confidence and familiarity with the system.
Canvas Watch Party Week
Monday, March 9 – Thursday, March 12
12–1 p.m.
Join the TLC for interactive tutorial watch parties with time for questions and discussion. Each daily session focuses on a different topic.
Self-Paced Canvas Course
A flexible, six-module course designed to help you explore Canvas on your own schedule.
Gateway and First-Year Courses
Faculty teaching Gateway and first-year courses are encouraged to remain in Blackboard until the Early Warning System (EWS) is fully implemented in Canvas. If you elect to teach in Canvas before EWS is available, grades must be uploaded weekly into Blackboard to preserve retention tracking data.
If you are interested in teaching an upcoming course in Canvas, please contact your course scheduler. The Canvas Implementation Leads in your academic unit are available as resources for the transition at the local level; additional resources are available at drexel.edu/countdowntocanvas.
We appreciate your continued partnership in this important University-wide initiative and encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities this spring.
Sincerely,
Paul E. Jensen, PhD
Executive Vice President
Nina Henderson Provost
Johanna Inman, EdD
Associate Vice Provost
Executive Director, Teaching and Learning Center
Co-Lead, LMS Implementation Task Force
Michael Shelmet, EdD
Director of Instructional Technology
Co-Lead, LMS Implementation Task Force