Canvas

Canvas is our Learning Management System (LMS) for students. Canvas has replaced Wattle, our previous LMS, since 2025.

What is a learning management system?

A Learning Management System (LMS) is a software application used by students and teachers at Universities and other education institutions to facilitate the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, automation and delivery of courses and related assignments and grading activities.

In Canvas, there is a separate site for each course you are enrolled in with key information such as: assessment details; grades; tutorial enrolments; lecture recordings; weekly readings; course updates; announcements and other learning materials as well as collaboration spaces. You can set up notifications within Canvas to help you stay updated. 

The majority of courses are now available in Canvas. If your course is not appearing in Canvas, it may be one of the small number of courses still being taught through our previous LMS, Wattle. For courses that are in Canvas, you will be able to access the following features: 

Key Canvas features for students 

  • Anywhere, anytime access: Canvas is available on any device, including as a Mobile App. This means you can access your course materials, assignments, communications with classmates and teachers and more, anywhere, anytime.
  • Consistency across courses: Each course is presented in a uniform structure within the system, so you are able to focus on your study rather than trying to figure out difficult content navigation.
  • Everything in one place: With the Canvas calendar, you can view all the tasks your teachers have set in Canvas in one place. If your teachers have set up course materials, assignments, grades, and communications in Canvas, these are also available from central navigation, helping you find what you need quickly and easily.
  • Easy Communication: Stay informed and connected with course conveners, teachers and classmates using inbuilt message Inbox and Discussion forum that help you collaborate and learn from each other.  
  • Personalisation: Track your progress and receive personalised notifications on assignment deadlines, results and more.
  • Integrated tools: Your other key learning tools like Turnitin, Echo360, and Leganto are seamlessly integrated into Canvas, providing a connected learning experience.  

To find out more specific details on how each of these features looks and functions, visit Canvas Quick Start Guide (PDF, 14 pages, 1.28 MB), watch Canvas Quick Start Guide Videos  (opens in YouTube) below and links to further information at right. 

Watch this playlist for a series of videos to help you get started in Canvas

Canvas access and support

To access Canvas, log in at https://canvas.anu.edu.au (opens Canvas) using your Single Sign On credentials. 

If you need assistance with accessing Canvas, you can:  

  1. Access online assistance via the ANU Service Desk
  2. Call the ANU Service Desk on (02) 612 54321

Once logged in to Canvas, you can seek support via the Help option in the Canvas Global Navigation Menu:

  1. Search Canvas Self-Help Guides
  2. Live chat Canvas 24/7 Support
  3. Access Telephone Support (+61 1800 328 510) 

Canvas app for mobile and tablet

The Canvas Student App allows you to access courses and groups using a mobile device. You can submit assignments, participate in discussions, view grades, and access course materials. The App also provides access to course calendars, To Do items, notifications, and Inbox messages. 

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