Is InstructureCon for Open-Source Users?

[#1]

Hello,

I'm an instructional systems specialists.

Our university is procuring "open-source" CANVAS LMS, as part of an integrated student information and learning management systems.

Several of us are considering attending the InstructureCon 2017 conference, and concerned the conference may NOT be for those institutions who have the "open-source" version of CANVAS LMS.

Will those of us, whose institutions have the open-source CANVAS LMS, gain valuable information and training on how to use the system?

Please advise promptly, as we have to submit request through our agency for conference attendance very soon.

Sincerely,

Matthew J. Correia, Civ, DAFC

Education Support Division

Voice: DSN: 493-9690 / Comm: (334) 953-9690 matthew.correia.2@us.af.mi

[mjennings]

I would say absolutely. But I am sure some other Canvas people or open source users can give you a more official statement.

[kona]

I would tend to agree that InstructureCon is beneficial to all Canvas users, but I've passed this along to the Community Managers to see if we can get a more official response. 🙂

[Renee_Carney]

The answer is, yes.  There is no official open source track, however there are many open source users that come year after year.  We look forward to seeing you there!

[kona]

Excellent! Also, if you're attending InstructureCon you might also consider coming a bit early and attending the Canvas Intelligence Exchange. It's a free event taking place Tuesday morning before the official conference kick off and will be a great chance to meet, talk, and share with other Canvas users about all things Canvas. In addition, there will be some Canvas/InstructureCon veterans in attendance who can also offer up advice and suggestions about how to get the most out of the conference. Hope to see you there!

[SchaeferG]

I know that at least one large Canadian university sends people every year, as they have to use open source due to provincial regulations. Since they return each year,  I would assume it's valuable!  

[ltscal2]

Yes that's right we have been running open source/non-hosted Canvas for almost 5 years and attended instructureCon every year since.  We would love to see more open source installations to collaborate/share and connect. Please connect with SFU from Vancouver, BC while you are there!

Its actually even MORE useful to come to instructurecon -- not just cuz its a fun party but for the support. As open source installs we dont get the official support from instructure so this crowdsource and connections we make from InstructureCon bring the utmost value for such institutions. My colleague will be at the hacknight and I highly recommend you go hang out with him there.

[admin · Accepted solution]

Thanks to all who responded to my enquiry. You have all provided valuable information and assurance that my trip to InstructureCon 2017 is worth the investment. I intend to participate in two preconference sessions, and look forward to learning alot more about Canvas!

[scottdennis]

Hey Matthew,

If you haven't already, consider attending Hack Night.  I know there will be at least one table specifically for open sources users.