Announcements

Introduction

Announcements are often the first thing students see when they enter a Canvas course. They help set the tone for the class and can bring different elements of the course together. Announcements are also a great way to welcome students at the beginning of the term. Posting announcements regularly helps you stay connected with students and maintain an active presence in the class. Frequent updates can increase interaction and help students feel more connected to you as their instructor.

A Closer Look

Posting Your Welcome Announcement

Creating an inviting and personable welcome announcement is one of the easiest ways to connect with students and start the class on a high note. Consider including the following in your welcome message:

  • A friendly greeting
  • A personal introduction
  • The name of the course, along with a short description of what students will learn
  • Contact and office hours information
  • References to helpful discussion forums in the course (e.g., Ask the Instructor, Raise Your Hand)
  • Instructions for beginning the course (e.g., “To get started, go to the Content page and…”)

You might also use your welcome note to:

  • Tell students the actual course start date (as opposed to the preview start date, if applicable).
  • Introduce the first lesson or suggest an icebreaker discussion.
  • Note special aspects of the course (e.g., writing emphasis, major projects).
  • Show where students come from geographically using a map, graphic, or another visual element.
  • Explain any pertinent policies, exams, or quizzes.
  • Introduce any additional instructors or guest lecturers.
  • Point out any known issues at the start of the course (e.g., “Because we’re making small changes, please do not print anything until the actual course open date…”).

Making the Most of Announcements

Besides the welcome announcement, there are countless ways to use announcements in your course to support student learning, keep everyone informed, and build a stronger classroom community. Here are some additional ways to use them:

  • Make last-minute changes to assignments or deadlines.
  • Introduce upcoming exams, readings, projects, or other activities.
  • Announce that grades are posted.
  • Remind students about penalties for submitting late assignments.

  • Expand on lesson commentaries.
  • Present graphics to spark discussion or illustrate concepts.
  • Explain how to begin and conduct special assignments.
  • Post last-minute resources (e.g., audio to accompany lectures or assignments).
  • Stress the importance of discussions in the online environment.
  • Post general comments on the class’s performance on certain assignments.

  • Cheer students on during big projects or before exams, especially after the first week.
  • Congratulate students reaching milestones or receiving honors (e.g., upcoming graduations).
  • Connect current events or news stories to the course content.
  • Solicit suggestions or feedback.
  • Ask students to share their successes or challenges in preparing for an exam or completing a significant project.
  • Ask students to share a personal or professional experience that reflects the content of a recent lesson.
  • Invite students to share recommended reading or resources with their classmates.

  • Share job opportunities or professional associations that students might join.
  • Invite students to share their contact information or LinkedIn accounts with their classmates to foster professional networking.
  • Note important upcoming events related to your professional field or academic studies.
  • Share your own experience in the field, if applicable (e.g., how you got to where you are today, who helped you on this path, your advice for people newly entering your field).

  • Announce technical issues or mistakes in assignment directions or grading.
  • Share reminders and resources about plagiarism.
  • Initiate the setup of virtual meetings and groups.
  • Ask students if they’re having any technical issues or if everything is running smoothly.

There are a variety of ways you can regularly communicate with your students. Using strategies like these can greatly enhance the online learning experience and ensure that students stay informed, motivated, and engaged throughout the course.

Foster a Positive Learning Environment

Consistently and effectively using announcements can significantly enhance the online learning experience and create a climate of well-being for all of your students.

Additional Resources