Canvas Inbox - Instructor Communication & Student Guide
Overview
Clear, timely communication in Canvas is essential to your success as a student.
This guide explains:
This guide explains:
- How to message your instructor during and after your course.
- How to check Canvas announcements.
- Where to find helpful Canvas navigation resources.
- Includes Information on Course Announcements, Post-Course Messaging, and Canvas Navigation Resources
Response Time: Instructors typically respond within 48 hours from sending a message. Response times may be slightly longer during holidays or peak times in a semester.
Expected Grading Timeline
Grading and rubric feedback for mastery (writing) assignments may take up to 5–7 days. Multiple-choice quizzes are scored automatically by Canvas.
Canvas Course Announcements
Students should regularly check the "Announcements" and "Grades" sections of the course for essential feedback for assignments and important updates related to their course:
- Course Resources, Important Dates, Instructor Office Hours
- Course Schedule (Posted during the first week)
- Honorlock Setup Reminder
- Midway Check-In (Midterm Resources)
- Course Closure & Finals Week Reminders
A reminder will be posted at least one week before the course closes.
Getting Started in Canvas – Student Checklist
All students must complete the Course Introduction by clicking through each required page before starting Module 1.
Required Course Introduction Pages:
- Syllabus (Must complete the syllabus quiz to unlock Module 1)
Once the Course Introduction is complete, you may begin Module 1 and proceed in order.
Additional Student Resources:
Messaging Instructors: During and After the Course
Navigate to Your Inbox located on the Canvas Main Menu:
View Your Canvas Inbox Toolbar:
The toolbar includes these message options below:
- Filtering by type lets you filter messages by Inbox, Unread, Starred, Sent, Archived, and Submission Comments.
- You can search for conversations by name in the Search by user field [3].
How to Contact Your Instructor:
- Check the "Home" page or the "Meet Your Instructor" button in your course for your instructor's name.
- Message your instructor using the Canvas Inbox.
- Expect responses within 48 hours.
- Instructors host weekly office hours for general course inquiries that may require more discussion.
Steps to Find Concluded Courses in Your Canvas Inbox:
Important Disclaimer: Grading and assignment reviews may continue after the course end date, especially for those whose work was submitted close to the deadline.
- Open your Inbox in the Canvas menu.
- Click the dropdown labeled "All Courses" on the toolbar option [1].
- Under "Concluded Courses," locate your course [1].
- Next, search for your instructor's full name in the search option; this may also be seen under Users>Teachers.
(If you see multiple options, your instructor's full name may be seen on your "Home" page of each course in Canvas.) - To compose your message, click the ✏️ Pencil icon [4] in the toolbar.
- When this box pops up, please double-check all three fields (seen below) before sending your message:
Technical Assistance
If you have additional questions or experience technical issues with exams, assignment submissions, or Canvas access (especially near the course end date), please contact:
TEL Support Team: Support@tel-education.org
TEL Support Team: Support@tel-education.org
- Contacting support is the fastest way to resolve technical issues and ensure you meet your deadlines.
Summary
- Use the Canvas Inbox to message instructors, including after the course ends.
- Be sure to filter for Concluded Courses when needed.
- Check the Announcements page regularly for office hours, updates, and reminders.
- Allow up to 48 hours for instructor responses.
- Contact TEL Support for exam questions and technical issues