Better Canvas

Better Canvas is a feature-rich browser extension designed to enhance the user experience on Instructure Canvas, the widely used learning management system (LMS).

Built for students and educators alike, this Better Canvas extension introduces a suite of productivity, customization, and visual enhancement tools directly into the Canvas interface.



It addresses many of the pain points users encounter in Canvas' default UI, offering streamlined navigation, deadline management, and design improvements to help users focus on learning and teaching—not battling the platform.

Main Features

Custom Themes: Apply dark mode or custom color schemes to improve visual comfort.

To-Do Enhancements: See due dates and assignments more clearly with an improved calendar and dashboard widget.

Grade Calculator: Estimate final grades by simulating assignment outcomes.

Enhanced Notifications: Get real-time alerts and reminders tailored to your course activity.



Collapsible Modules: Tidy up long course pages with module collapse/expand features.

Late Policy Indicators: Visual warnings for overdue or late submissions.

Custom Dashboard Layouts: Reorganize courses on the homepage with drag-and-drop support.

Quick Links: Add shortcuts to frequently visited Canvas tools and external resources.

User Interface

The extension integrates seamlessly into the existing Canvas UI without being intrusive. After installation, users will notice a subtle new toolbar and context menu options within Canvas pages.



These elements are designed to match Canvas’ native design language while offering added utility. Users can toggle features on or off through an intuitive settings panel accessible via the extension icon in the browser.

The dashboard and course pages benefit most from the enhancements, with added visual cues, collapsible sections, and streamlined buttons. Overall, the UI improvements reduce clutter and improve usability without introducing a learning curve.

Installation and Setup

BetterCanvas is available as a browser extension for both Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Installation steps:

Visit the Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons site.

Search for "Better Canvas" and click Add to Chrome or Add to Firefox.

Once installed, click the extension icon and grant permissions.

Open your Canvas LMS in a new tab. The extension will auto-inject improvements.

Use the settings panel to customize the experience to your needs.

Setup is automatic and requires no account or external login, making it quick to get started.

How to Use

• Login to Canvas as usual in your browser.
• Open any course page to see improved module layouts and visual markers.
• Use the toolbar or context menu to access grade calculators or toggle features like dark mode.
• Customize your dashboard by rearranging course tiles using drag-and-drop.
• Visit the extension settings to enable or disable specific tools based on your preferences.
• The extension works in the background and updates itself regularly, requiring no maintenance from the user.

FAQs

Does Better Canvas work on mobile or tablet browsers?
No, Better Canvas is a browser extension for desktop versions of Chrome and Firefox only.

Will this extension violate my university’s IT policies?
BetterCanvas only modifies the front-end display of Canvas in your browser. It does not send or collect user data. However, check with your institution if unsure.

Can I revert changes or disable it temporarily?
Yes. Use the extension icon in the browser toolbar to toggle it off without uninstalling.

Does it work with all Canvas features?
Most core features are supported, but custom tools added by institutions (e.g., plugins or LTI tools) may not benefit from enhancements.

Will it interfere with Canvas updates?
The extension is regularly maintained to stay compatible with Canvas updates. If a problem occurs, updates or a temporary toggle-off can resolve it.



Alternatives

Canvas+: Another enhancement extension with fewer customization features but good visual tools.

Canvas Dark Mode: Offers dark mode but lacks functional enhancements.

Grade Hound: Focuses on assignment tracking but does not enhance UI.

Notion for Students (indirect alternative): Great for task management but not integrated with Canvas.

It stands out by offering both visual improvements and functional tools inside the actual Canvas platform, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools.

Pricing

This app is completely FREE to use. There are no premium tiers, subscriptions, or hidden fees. Development is supported by the open-source community or donations.

System Requirements

• Operating Systems: Windows 11 or Windows 10, macOS 10.13 or higher
• Browser: Google Chrome (latest version), Mozilla Firefox (latest version)
• Internet: Required for real-time Canvas integration
• No special hardware or additional software is needed.

PROS

• Free and easy to install
• Adds genuinely useful features for students and teachers
• Customizable interface without breaking Canvas
• Works silently in the background

CONS

• May not fully support institutional customizations
• Occasional compatibility issues after Canvas platform updates

Conclusion

Better Canvas is a must-have browser extension for any student or educator using Instructure Canvas. With a thoughtful balance of functionality, customization, and ease of use, it brings modern quality-of-life features to a platform that often feels rigid and outdated. From managing grades and deadlines to visually optimizing your workspace, it enhances your productivity without demanding effort or cost.