The Announcements feature in Canvas is a critical tool for fostering instructor presence, maintaining clear communication, and supporting student learning. Regular, thoughtful announcements help students stay engaged, organized, and connected to both the content and the community of the course. Effective use of announcements can also reduce confusion, enhance motivation, and create a consistent rhythm in the course experience.
1. Beginning of the Course: Welcome and Orientation
4. Post-Exam Feedback and Next Steps
5. Upcoming Project or Essay Reminder
Tips and Best Practices for Effective Announcements
Sample Announcements
Below are several sample announcements that instructors can use as templates. Each template includes areas to personalize, allowing instructors to quickly communicate key information while maintaining a warm and professional tone.
1. Beginning of the Course: Welcome and Orientation
Subject: Welcome to [Course Title]! Important Information to Get Started
Body:
Dear Students,
Welcome to [Course Title]! I am [Instructor Name], and I am excited to begin this journey with you. This course will be conducted primarily through Canvas, where you will find the syllabus, weekly materials, assignment guidelines, and important updates.
Please begin by reviewing the syllabus carefully, located [link to syllabus or module]. Make sure to note important dates and expectations.
To get started, I recommend completing the [first assignment/introductory discussion/reading assignment] by [due date].
If you have any questions as we begin, feel free to post in the [Q&A Discussion Board] or email me at [email address]. I look forward to working with each of you.
Sincerely,
[Instructor Name]
2. Weekly Overview and Recap
Subject: Week [Number] Overview and Last Week’s Highlights
Body:
Dear Students,
Welcome to Week [Number]! Last week, you accomplished [brief summary of last week’s key activities or achievements]. I appreciated your engagement with [discussion topic/assignment/project], and I encourage you to continue bringing the same thoughtfulness to this week’s work.
This week, we will be focusing on [brief description of new topic]. Please review the materials in [Module Name] and complete [assignment or reading] by [due date].
Remember, if you have questions about this week’s materials, you are encouraged to reach out early. I look forward to seeing your continued progress.
Best regards,
[Instructor Name]
3. Post-Discussion Reflection
Subject: Great Work in Our Recent Discussion!
Body:
Dear Students,
I wanted to take a moment to recognize the thoughtful discussion that took place around [discussion topic]. Many of you made insightful connections between [key concepts] and real-world applications, and I am proud of the critical thinking on display.
In particular, [optional: highlight a few themes or student contributions].
Please remember that ongoing dialogue is vital to deep learning. I encourage you to continue building on these ideas as we move into [upcoming topic or assignment].
Thank you for your engagement and collaboration.
Warm regards,
[Instructor Name]
4. Post-Exam Feedback and Next Steps
Subject: Exam [Number] Reflections and How to Move Forward
Body:
Dear Students,
Thank you for your hard work on Exam [Number]. Overall, I observed strong understanding in areas such as [strength areas], and some opportunities for improvement in [areas for growth].
To help you reflect and prepare for future assessments, I have posted [exam answer key/feedback video/office hours schedule]. You can access it here: [link]. I encourage you to review your performance and reach out if you have questions about specific items.
Remember, exams are valuable learning tools, and each experience helps build your mastery of the material.
Keep up the good work,
[Instructor Name]
5. Upcoming Project or Essay Reminder
Subject: Reminder: [Project/Essay Name] Due [Due Date]
Body:
Dear Students,
This is a reminder that [Project/Essay Name] is due on [due date]. Please be sure to review the instructions carefully in [Module or Assignment Link].
Here are a few key tips to help you succeed:
-
Focus on [tip 1]
-
Ensure that you [tip 2]
-
Review [resource or rubric] before submitting
If you have questions or need clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out. Submitting your work on time ensures that you stay on track for success in the course.
Wishing you the best as you complete this important assignment,
[Instructor Name]
Tips and Best Practices for Effective Announcements
1. Be Consistent
Aim to post announcements on a predictable schedule. For example, a weekly overview posted every Monday helps students anticipate new content and deadlines. Consistency supports time management and builds trust.
2. Keep It Focused
Announcements should be concise and targeted. Focus on one main purpose per announcement, such as a new week’s overview, assignment reminders, or feedback after an exam. Avoid overwhelming students with too many topics at once.
3. Use Clear Subject Lines
A clear subject line helps students immediately understand the purpose of the announcement. Examples include "Week 3 Overview," "Reminder: Project Draft Due Friday," or "Exam 1 Review Materials Posted."
4. Maintain a Professional yet Supportive Tone
Announcements should strike a balance between professionalism and encouragement. Acknowledge students’ efforts, express enthusiasm for the material, and offer support as needed. This helps maintain instructor presence and student motivation.
5. Provide Actionable Information
Whenever possible, include specific instructions or links that direct students to what they should read, watch, or complete next. Clear calls to action reduce confusion and help keep students on track.
6. Highlight Resources and Support
Remind students of available resources, such as office hours, tutoring services, writing centers, or help forums. This normalizes help-seeking behaviors and promotes student success.
7. Address the Entire Class, but Consider the Individual
Write announcements in a way that speaks to the group, while still making students feel individually seen and valued. Phrases like "I look forward to reading each of your reflections" can personalize the message without naming individuals.
8. Review Before Posting
Take a moment to review spelling, grammar, and clarity before posting an announcement. A well-edited message models professionalism and attention to detail.
9. Use Multimedia Sparingly and Purposefully
If appropriate, a short video message or image can enhance presence and engagement. However, always ensure multimedia is accessible and complements, rather than complicates, the announcement’s main message.
10. Close with Encouragement or a Call to Action
End announcements with a positive note or a reminder of what students should do next. Clear closing statements provide momentum and reinforce a supportive learning environment.