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Canvas: Change Course Front Page
This document explains layout options for your course front page and how to set it up to your specifications.
Default Home Page Layout in Canvas
Canvas automatically sets your course home, or front page, to the Modules section of your course.
Instructor View
Below is an instructor's view of a new/empty Modules area set as the course front page.
If you do not use Modules, or would prefer another option, you can set your home page to be the Recent Activity Dashboard, Course Modules, the Assignment List, the Syllabus, or customize your own home page by using Pages Front Page.
Student View
If you are using Modules as your home page, but have not yet created modules, students will see the following:
Other Home Page Layout Options in Canvas
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Course Activity Stream
Setting your home page as Course Activity Stream allows students to quickly see what is going on in the course. The most recent announcements and assignment due dates are posted there. -
Course Modules
Using Course Modules as your home page allows you to guide and direct students in the order you want them to proceed through the course. Modules create a more structured approach to guiding students through the materials, lessons, and activities to complete. -
Assignment List
Using the Assignment List as the front page will show students their most recent as well as upcoming assignments. -
Syllabus
In Canvas, you can customize your syllabus to communicate your expectations and goals with your students. The syllabus is automatically populated with the assignments and events in the course. If you want to get fancy, you can create a button syllabus to guide students through the course. -
Pages Front Page
Finally, Canvas allows you to create a customized page and set that as your course home page. This option allows for maximum customization and creativity. On the front page you can describe your course, add pictures and links to other pages, files, modules, discussions, or any area in your course. You must set a page to be the Front Page (from the pages tool) before you can set it as the Home Page in settings.