Alcorn to introduce Canvas as new Learning Management System

After years of using Blackboard as its Learning Management System, Alcorn State University is preparing to switch to a new system for Fall 2018.

The University's Office of Online Education announced that Alcorn will be switching to Canvas, a system that brings all classroom tools together, especially those courses offered online. Canvas is a comprehensive, cloud-native software package learning system designed to make the teaching and learning experience more comfortable for all.

Designed specifically for K-12 teachers and students, Canvas is an easy-to-use, cloud-based learning management system (LMS) that connects all the digital tools and resources teachers use in one place. It integrates seamlessly with hundreds of apps, empowering teachers and students with many tools to make teaching and learning easier and more fun.

Dr. Tamia Herndon, director of Online Education at Alcorn, explained why the University chose Canvas over Blackboard.

"We decided to switch to Canvas because it is more cost effective for the University and it is much more conducive to meeting the needs of both faculty and students," said Herndon.

Herndon said that canvas would provide a boost in student/teacher interaction for quicker results.

"Canvas will help to enhance the online experience at Alcorn because it is easy to use, mobile friendly, dependable, and helps to save time for faculty and student communication. Students can access courses on any computer device, including smartphones or tablets."

Training for Canvas begins Monday, April 16 in the LMS area where Blackboard is located for faculty. Training sessions will be ongoing until all faculty teaching online has completed the course with a score of 100 for certification.

For more information about Canvas and the training session, contact Herndon at (601) 877-3540 or [email protected].