Canvas Commons is a powerful learning object repository integrated directly into your Canvas Learning Management System. This section will guide you through accessing Canvas Commons and understanding its interface, ensuring you can efficiently navigate and utilize this valuable resource.

Locating Canvas Commons

To access Canvas Commons:

Log in to your Canvas account
Look for the global navigation menu on the left side of your screen
Click on the "Commons" link in this menu

A screenshot of the Canvas Navigation menu with an arrow pointing to the Canvas Commons link

If you don't see the Commons link, contact your institution's Canvas administrator, as it may need to be enabled for your account.

Understanding the Interface

Once you've accessed Canvas Commons, you'll see a user-friendly interface designed to help you find and share resources easily. The main components of the Canvas Commons interface include:

Search bar: Located at the top of the page
Filters: On the left side of the page
Resource cards: Displayed in the main area
Tabs: "Search," "Shared," and "Favorites" at the top of the page

Canvas Commons main interface with key components labeled

Basic Search and Filter Functions

To start finding resources in Canvas Commons:

Enter keywords related to your desired content in the search bar
Use the filters on the left to narrow down results by:
- Content type (e.g., course, module, assignment)
- Grade level
- Subject area
- Institution

You can combine search terms and filters to find the most relevant resources for your needs.

Canvas Commons search results with filters applied

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Use specific search terms to find more relevant results
Explore the "Shared" tab to see resources you've shared or that have been shared with you
Utilize the "Favorites" feature to save resources for later use
Click on resource cards to view more details and preview content before importing

Conclusion

By familiarizing yourself with these basic navigation and search functions, you'll be well-equipped to explore the wealth of resources available in Canvas Commons. Remember that Canvas Commons is a collaborative platform, allowing you to not only find and use resources but also share your own materials with colleagues across your institution or the wider Canvas community.

In the next section, we'll delve deeper into advanced search techniques and evaluating search results to help you find the most appropriate resources for your courses.