Do I have to use Modules?

[nalexandrowicz]

Modules is nice... it lays out all of the pages, assignments, quizzes, and more in a nice outline. But, could I just skip putting stuff in Modules and use hyperlinks from a Home Page instead? It seems to work well. I still use an outline form but this time it's of hyperlinks to and from Pages. Is this alternative method an effective instructional design? Is there some value to keeping everything in the Modules outline instead of making my own linked outline? Our e-learning folks emphasize Modules and it feels like I'd be creating a method of content delivery that might look too different from everyone else. However, it feels more intuitive to me - like using a website. Thoughts?

[scottdennis · Accepted solution]

Hello,

There certainly is no technical requirement that you employ modules.  Some people prefer to use modules as their course front page.  Other people create a home page that relies heavily on linking and html.  This is more common in lower grade levels where the teacher wants to simplify the look of their courses.  I've even seen where people have had students access the pages tab directly with no modules or other course structure (although I don't recommend this strategy).

[Sbauer84]

I’m brand new to canvas and I’m trying to figure out how this all works lol do I have to create modules? Or are there established ones that I could cherry-pick and load?

[scottdennis]

Hello,

No, you probably do not need to start from scratch!  Depending on what the policies are at your institution you may or may not see Canvas Commons listed in your global nav when logged in.  Commons is a global repository of content shared by other educators (hint; Commons is available in Free for Teachers).  You might also get Canvas-formatted content from your friends or peers, either copied into a shared course or given to you in an archive file.  Also you will probably find pretty quickly that it is relatively easy to import or copy content from other sources as well.  Good luck and happy Canvas-ing!

[Stef_retired]

Adding my two cents to the thread: Modules are an organized collection of course resources, but they're so much more than that. Modules are also a powerful course delivery tool that allows instructors to release content selectively and in keeping with a student's mastery level. Please read through  What are Modules? and  How do I use MasteryPaths in course modules? to learn more about the versatility of modules. I also enjoy the philosophical approach  Share UDL Course Design Tips, Tricks, and Techniqu...  provides.