Collaboration and Integration

Abstract

The University of North Florida (UNF) transitioned to Canvas as its Learning Management System (LMS) in summer 2017. This implementation brought on opportunities that allowed for a more user-friendly learning environment for students. Working with students in courses which were in-person, hybrid, or online, brought about the need for the library to have a place in the Canvas LMS. Students needed to remember how to access and locate library resources and services outside of Canvas. During this time, the Thomas G. Carpenter Library’s online presence was enhanced, yet still not visible in Canvas. It became apparent that the library needed to be integrated into Canvas courses. This would enable students to easily transition between their coursework and finding resources and services to support their studies. In addition, librarians who worked with students, looked for ways for students to easily find library resources and services online. After much discussion, it became clear to the Online Learning Librarian (OLL) and the Director of Technical Services and Library Systems (Library Director) that the library needed to explore ways to integrate more with Canvas.

Rapid Implementation of a Reserve Reading List Solution in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…13 Murray and Feinberg address the placement of LibGuides in the learning management system stating it is critical to make resources available despite where students are physically located." 14 This can be extrapolated to reading lists, and in this environment, where students are learning online in geographically dispersed locations, the lists need to be easily available.…”

“…Knowing and including relevant stakeholders, gaining instructor buyin and understanding of the benefits, and determining how to raise student awareness of the tool, both short and longer term, are key elements. 15 The literature recommends providing instructors with resources such as templates and training "at specific points in the semesters when faculty have less time pressures." 16 However, engagement should not be limited to this: it should be ongoing and collaborative.…”

“…As mentioned in the literature, having the online reading list solutions embedded and integrated with the institutional LMS is a key factor for successful adoption of the tool by instructors and students. 21 Using the LTI integration, we were able to connect Alma, Leganto, and D2L. This work required coordination with the administrators of D2L at the University so that course and student data could be communicated between D2L, Alma, and Leganto.…”