Designing for Interactions in Learning Management System : An Evolution and Re-design of Canvas from a Student Perspective

Abstract: Learning management system (LMS) has been adopted by a majority of higher education institutions. LMS is an important tool for students in their education and often used daily by students in their studies. This thesis project examines how interactions in the interface of the LMS Canvas can be designed to support university students with managing their studies. Navigating in Canvas was proven to be one of the main challenges students had with Canvas and this study addresses how navigation in Canvas can be improved by adding or re-designing interactions in the interface. This study follows the double diamond methodology. Several qualitative methods such as observation, focus group, prototyping, co-creation workshop and usability testing have been included in the design process to examine students from Malmö University experiences with Canvas and to test the design develop in the study. The result of this study is suggested adjustments to the Canvas interface that support university students in navigating and easier finding materials in Canvas. The suggested adjustments are a preview function, content of the material box, a filter function, and a search bar.