The University of Liverpool, recognised as the original Redbrick University, is well-known for its strong commitment to research and innovation. As part of its strategic objectives, the university aimed to develop a modern and user-friendly virtual learning environment (VLE) that would support research-connected teaching, enhance the digital experience for students, and extend the university's global reach.
The Decision To Move To Canvas Vle
Before the adoption of Canvas, the university used a legacy learning management system that was unintuitive, limiting staff engagement and discouraging interactive and collaborative learning. The university conducted an extensive tender process to evaluate various VLE solutions. Canvas distinguished itself by offering:
An intuitive and modern interface
Cloud-based infrastructure that can cater for the institution’s growth goals
Strong support for various assessment types
A reliable mobile application
Responsive and engaging customer support
A clear development roadmap aligning with the university’s pedagogical objectives
The Outcome
Students can access learning materials seamlessly across various devices. This improvement has notably increased engagement levels among learners. One of the standout features, Canvas Studio, allows lecturers to create interactive video presentations, which include quizzes designed to deepen student comprehension.
During my Undergraduate Degree, we used an on-premise, open-source VLE and Ifound the platform disorganised and difficultto use. Using Canvas for my Master’s Degree is a much better experience.It’s just so much easier to collaborate with my peers and learn remotely.Ilove the mobile app as well.
Shreyas Gawande,
Master’s Student, University of Liverpool
Tellingly, the university’s TEF rating has moved from silver to gold, reflecting enhanced student satisfaction and overall digital experience.
I feel like Canvas has improved our accolades and our reputation here at Liverpool in several ways. We’ve seen things like our TEF rating move from silver to gold. And students have been more satisfied with the experience they’ve had through the LMS.
- Ben Mc Grae,
Educational Developer, University of Liverpool
The cloud-based system eliminates the need for labour-intensive manual upgrades, allowing IT staff to focus on innovation. What’s more, the platform’s scalability ensures it can accommodate the university’s growth, particularly as it expands internationally.
Canvas VLE is supporting our expansion both locally and internationally.It’s an incredibly scalable and configurable platform, and we’ve been able to grow with relative ease.
Andy Dolben,
IT Director IT Director, University of Liverpool
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