Earlier this year, the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) began exploring options for a new learning management system as the institution prepares to transition away from Anthology’s Blackboard Original platform, which is being phased out. In response, UIC assessed both Anthology’s Blackboard Ultra and Instructure’s Canvas as potential replacements. Faculty, students, and staff were involved in a two-phase evaluation process, interacting with the systems and providing feedback through surveys.
Following a comprehensive review, UIC has opted to adopt Canvas as its new learning management system, largely driven by community feedback. "We are pleased to share that, after a thorough review of Anthology’s Blackboard Ultra and Instructure’s Canvas, we have decided to transition to Canvas over the coming year," the statement confirms. The preference for Canvas was clear, with 70% of survey participants favoring it.
This move to Canvas is anticipated to improve UIC's educational tools and help meet Title II accessibility requirements. The school plans to align with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 to ensure an accessible learning environment for all students. "This commitment is essential to providing an inclusive and accessible learning experience for all students, regardless of their individual needs," states the institution's announcement.
UIC will disseminate detailed transition plans, including timelines and available support resources, to colleges and faculty as the academic year concludes. The institution invites continual feedback during the transition.
For any questions, Bryan Libbin, associate chief information officer for academic technology and learning innovation, can be reached via email. Updates and further details will be shared as the transition progresses.
"Thank you for your ongoing support and collaboration as we work toward creating an enhanced and more effective learning environment for our entire UIC community," writes Karen J. Colley, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.