Tips for Using Canvas and Zoom

If you have any questions about the content of this page or need help using Canvas or Zoom, send an email to cfeti@sjsu.edu


Using Modules and Canvas Pages

Step 1: Use Modules

If you’re not already using Modules, create one because it will act as a filing folder for all the course content students will need during the emergency. 

See the first minute of How to Create Accessible Canvas Pages (video) for a quick demonstration on using Modules. 

Step 2: Create Accessible Canvas 

With a Canvas page, you can link essential course materials to the page making it easy for students to find important resources.

Ensure your Canvas pages are accessible. Use headers, built in bullets, numbering, tables with a header row or column, ALT text for all images, hyperlinks instead of pasting the URLs and readable fonts and colors. 


See the How to Create Accessible Canvas Pages (video) for a walkthrough of these best practices. There are clickable chapters in the video and useful resources in the details section.


Moving an In-Person Class to Zoom 

Transitioning an in-person university class to a remote format requires a strategic shift in both delivery and organization. You can't just "go live" at the usual time; you need to build a digital home for your course.

Phase 1: Structural Setup in Canvas

Before the first Zoom session, organize your digital "classroom" to provide students with a clear roadmap. 

Reorganize with Modules

Structure your course chronologically (e.g., "Week 1: Introduction"). Place all readings, assignments, and Zoom links within these modules so students have a "one-stop-shop".

Adapt the Syllabus

Update your syllabus to reflect new policies on attendance, participation, and deadline flexibility.

Centralize Communication

Post a "Welcome Back" announcement explaining exactly how and when the class will meet. 


Phase 2: Zoom Delivery Strategies

Moving to Zoom isn't about lecturing for 90 minutes; it's about maintaining engagement through a screen. 

Chunk Your Content

Instead of one long lecture, break your session into 10–15 minute segments followed by an interactive activity like a Zoom Poll or a Breakout Room discussion.

Use the First Session as a "Practice Day"

Dedicate the first 15 minutes of your first online class to troubleshooting tech and letting students practice using the Chat and Mute functions.

Automate Recordings

Set your sessions to record to the cloud. This ensures students with poor internet connectivity can watch the material later.