Overview
Modules help instructors organize course materials into a clear, sequential structure. A well-designed module layout helps students locate readings, assignments, discussions, quizzes, and other course activities more easily.
Modules can be organized by week, unit, topic, or another instructional sequence that supports the course structure.
Before You Begin
Open the Canvas course where you want to organize content. Consider how you want students to move through the materials and identify which activities belong together.
Tip: Choose a consistent naming structure, such as "Week 1: Introduction" or "Module 1: Course Foundations," to make course navigation easier for students.
How to Create and Organize a Module
- Open your Canvas course and click Modules in the course navigation menu.
- Click + Module.
- Enter a descriptive name for the module, such as a unit, week, or topic.
- Click Add Module.
- Select the + button within the module to add content.
- Choose the type of item you want to add. Available options may include:
- Assignment
- Quiz
- File
- Page
- Discussion
- External URL
- External Tool
- Repeat the process as needed to build the module.
- Drag and drop items to place them in the desired order.
- Publish the module and its items when they are ready for student access.
Module Content Types
Different content types allow instructors to build a complete learning experience within each module.
| Content Type |
Purpose |
| Assignment |
Provide work for students to complete or submit. |
| Quiz |
Add a quiz or assessment activity. |
| File |
Provide documents and downloadable course materials. |
| Page |
Present instructions, readings, and instructional content. |
| Discussion |
Include discussion-based learning activities. |
| External URL |
Direct students to an external website or resource. |
| External Tool |
Include supported third-party learning tools. |
Best Practices for Module Organization
- Use consistent naming: Follow the same naming pattern throughout the course.
- Organize logically: Arrange materials in the order students should complete them.
- Group related content: Keep readings, assignments, and discussions for the same topic together.
- Review publication status: Check both the module and the individual items before students need access.
Important: Publishing Modules
Publishing a module does not automatically make every unpublished item within it available to students. Confirm that the module and its required content are published.
Need Additional Assistance?
If you need help creating Modules, organizing course materials, or publishing module content, submit a Canvas Support request.
Canvas Support →