IRC Quick Tips: Using Groups in Canvas

How to Use Groups in Canvas

One of the most powerful features in Canvas is the ability to create and manage student groups. Groups can be used to allow students to work together on group projects and assignments. Here are some best practices for setting up and using groups in Canvas to ensure that your students get the most out of this powerful feature.

#1 - Use Descriptive Naming Conventions

Use descriptive group names that are specific to your course. When students access groups from the groups tab in Canvas, every group the student is a member of is listed on this page. Groups with generic names (Group A, Group 1, etc.) may result in confusion or duplication of group names across courses. Include your course number or name to help avoid confusion. For example, "AS.410.603: Final Project Group A" or “AS.491.700: Peer Writing Group 1”.

Learn More: How do I create groups in a group set?

#2 - Encourage Students to Use Group Space for Communication & Collaboration

Canvas provides a group page for each group, which can be used for communication and collaboration among group members. Encourage your students to use the group pages for discussions, sharing files, and providing feedback to one another.

Group Page in Canvas

#3 - Monitor Group Progress & Interact with Group Members

It’s important to monitor the progress of each group and to interact with group members regularly. This can include checking in on group discussions, providing feedback on group projects, and answering questions from group members. By regularly interacting with your students and monitoring their progress, you can help ensure that your groups are effective and that your students are getting the most out of the group experience.

Accessing Group Pages

Learn More: How do I view content and student activity within a group?

Groups in Canvas can be a powerful tool for organizing and managing your students, but it's important to set them up and use them in the right way. To learn more about instructional strategies that promote collaboration and engagement, visit the Instructional Approaches & Teaching Strategies Page in the AAP Teaching & Learning Community.

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Visit the AAP-IRC Teaching & Learning Community in Canvas

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