Canvas: How to Import a Template from the Commons

STELAR has created Canvas course templates with embedded best practices that can be used to guide the course design process. The templates include a home page, a syllabus page, a student support module, and may contain modules with pre-made overview pages. We've also made just the student support module available for your use (search for Module 0 (Getting Started) in Canvas Commons).

Important Notes about Canvas Templates

Some colleges, departments, or programs have a required template. If yours does not, choose the General Course Template (easier to use) or Branded Course Template (more stylized elements).

Importing new content will overwrite the existing syllabus page. Import the template first, then the previous course. Save a backup of your syllabus before importing/overwriting the syllabus.

How to Import a Template from Commons

1. When logged in to Canvas, choose Commons from the purple menu at the far left.
    
2. Find the appropriate St. Thomas template from the Commons. (If there are no department specific templates, use the General Course Template or Branded Course Template) ​​
   1. Click Filter.  In the options, choose Templates for content type.
   2. Scroll down and select University of St. Thomas.
       
3. Once you've found the template you want to import, click on the title. 
   

4. Preview the template by clicking on the module items..

5. When you are ready to add the template to your course, click Import/Download.

6. A list of your courses will pop up. Select the course(s) where you want to import this module. 

7. Click on import into course.

8. Once the import is complete, go to your course shell to begin building your course using the template. (See instructions for working with templates below.)

NOTE: Importing new content will overwrite the existing Syllabus page. Import the template first, then the previous course. Save a backup of your Syllabus.

Importing Previous Course Content

If you have previous course content, import that content AFTER importing the template

1. Click on Settings and Import Course Content.
    
2. When prompted, choose Select specific content
    
3. Review content to be imported.

• Do not import Events.
• If you choose to import Announcements, be sure to delay posting.

NOTE: Importing new content will overwrite the existing syllabus page. Import the template first, then the previous course. Save a backup of your syllabus.

Additional Help: 

• For a more detailed description of how to import modules and courses from the Canvas Commons visit  How do I import and view a Commons resource in Canvas?
• To get help importing Canvas templates, start by contact Canvas 24/7 support. 
• If you have special requirements from your department, or need assistance, please schedule a Canvas (Course Management) appointment through STELAR Bookings.