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Why Course Navigation Matters

Course navigation refers to the options on the left-hand side of your Canvas course like “Home,” “Modules,” and “Announcements.” It is the first impression students have when they open your Canvas course. If the navigation is cluttered or confusing, students may feel lost before they even begin learning. Clear and simplified navigation reduces stress, helps students focus on the content, and supports accessibility for learners who use assistive technologies.

When students can quickly find what they need, they spend less time clicking around and more time engaging with your course.


How to Improve Canvas Course Navigation

The goal is to keep navigation simple, predictable, and streamlined. A good practice is to reduce the number of items in the course menu so students have a single, consistent path to follow.

Steps to Customize Course Navigation on Canvas:

  1. Access Settings: In your Canvas course, select the Settings link located at the bottom of the course navigation menu.
  2. Select the Navigation Tab: Select the Navigation tab at the top of the Settings page.
  3. Reorder or Hide Items:
    • Drag and Drop: Select and drag items from the top list (enabled for students) to the bottom list (hidden from students), or vice versa, to change their visibility.
    • Use the Three-Dot Menu: Select the three-dot icon next to an item and select Enable or Disable to change its visibility.
    • Move Items: To reorder items within the enabled list, use the three-dot menu and select Move to choose its position.
  4. Save Your Changes: After making your desired adjustments, scroll to the bottom of the page and select the Save button.

Please watch this short video to learn how to manage your course navigation.


General Tips for Simplifying Navigation

  • Hide tools you do not use, such as Files, Pages, Assignments, Quizzes, or Discussions.
  • Keep only the essentials visible, such as Home, Announcements, Modules, and Grades.
  • Review your course from the “Student View” to confirm that the navigation feels intuitive and clear.

Need Help?

  • Stop by our Virtual Support Drop-In Zoom Room, which is open Monday – Friday, 9-4.
  • Book a time to meet with a team member through our Digital Learning Bookings page!
  • Email us at its.digitallearning@unomaha.edu.

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Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives

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