What
“External Tools” are sometimes called “third-party tools”, “Learning Tools” or LTIs (Learning Tool Interoperability). Common external tools integrated into Canvas include VoiceThread, ChimeIn 2, Kaltura Video Quiz and textbook publishers such as McGraw-Hill and Pearson.
When
When you wish to augment your course, check the full list of external learning tools already integrated into Canvas. If the tool you want is not on this list, beware of vendor claims of how easily and quickly you can integrate it with Canvas. All tools must first undergo a rigorous vetting for security, privacy, data retention, and operational sustainability. Currently, the process to test and obtain approvals from stakeholders and governance takes nine months or more.
How
Once you've identified a tool to integrate into your course, you need to add it to a module or assignment. The process is mostly consistent in both cases.
Adding an external tool to a Canvas Assignment
An external tool can be added to an assignment when your intention is to grade and provide summative assessment of student submissions. For example, you would like your student to submit a VoiceThread presentation as an assignment. You need it to appear in the Canvas Gradebook. Learn how to add an assignment using an external app.
Adding an external tool to a Canvas Module
For self-assessment and student engagement you can add an external tool to a Canvas course Module. For example, you have subscribed to a publisher resource and want to give your students access to this content in your Canvas course. Learn how to add an external tool to a Canvas Module.
Requesting an external tool to be integrated with Canvas
Faculty, instructors, and staff can request tool integrations for Canvas. As previously mentioned, requests are evaluated, prioritized and vetted before being integrated in Canvas. Learn more about the request process to integrate Learning Tools in Canvas. November 1st is the upcoming Fall 2022 due date for an initial request (to ideally be implemented the following Fall 2023).
Using an external tool that is NOT integrated with Canvas
If you are inspired to use a technology tool that is not integrated into Canvas, it is important for you to gain a clear understanding of how the tool operates and protects student data. Learn more on how you can evaluate a new tech tool.
Acknowledgments
Co-authored by: