25 January 2024
In a groundbreaking move, the Montana University System (MUS), encompassing the state’s public colleges and universities, has embarked on a transformative journey to modernise its learning experience and enhance student success. This initiative involves the adoption of the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS), a comprehensive platform designed to unify learning experiences and provide educators with powerful tools to support instruction.
With the integration of Canvas LMS, alongside Impact by Instructure and Canvas Credentials, educators throughout the state system gain access to evidence-based educational technology solutions. This unification promises a cohesive and efficient approach to teaching, fostering a more engaging and effective learning environment for over 40,000 students across 11 institutions.
A key focus of this statewide initiative is to create flexible learning environments, ensuring that students benefit from a seamless experience regardless of their geographic location. By embracing Canvas LMS, the MUS aims to extend student access, particularly for remote learners, opening doors to a myriad of resources such as mental health support, advising, and tutoring.
The MUS has a rich history of online learning to reach remote students, and the adoption of Instructure’s interoperable solutions allows the state to enhance its remote delivery of resources. This strategic move aligns with the broader goal of providing a comprehensive online outreach, ensuring that students receive the support they need to thrive academically.
By ensuring that courses and assessments are accessible to a wide range of students, the MUS aims to empower more adults to secure higher-paying jobs. The state-wide implementation of Canvas LMS creates a foundation for educational equality, bridging gaps and providing opportunities for diverse learners.
Transitioning to a single vendor not only streamlines operations but also lowers ongoing licensing costs. This move provides smaller institutions within the MUS access to new tools, including 24/7 support, thereby improving the overall educational experience for students. The adoption of Canvas LMS ensures a more consistent learning experience across all MUS institutions.
Joseph Thiel, Interim Deputy Commissioner, Academic, Research, and Student Affairs at the MUS, expresses the institution’s commitment to providing institutions the tools to work together more effectively. “Our vision is to provide Montana students a seamless learning experience of the highest quality, no matter where they reside or which of our institutions they attend.”
Instructure’s robust data and analytics tool play a crucial role in empowering educators and administrators. By providing actionable insights into edtech usage, this tool enables the MUS to tailor educational approaches to meet the unique needs of each student. Real-time data harnessing allows for program completion acceleration, giving students the flexibility to pursue programs across any institution within the state.
The adoption of Canvas LMS by the Montana University System marks a significant leap forward in the realm of education. By unifying learning experiences, embracing flexibility, and harnessing data-driven insights, the MUS is not just modernising its approach but also creating a pathway for students to succeed, irrespective of where they choose to learn within the state’s institutions.
