The DesignPLUS toolbar make it easier for instructors to create content in Canvas that is visually engaging and accessible.
According to Ghai & Tandon, "visually pleasing designs can enhance usability, credibility, user satisfaction, and trustworthiness . . ." (2022).
DesignPLUS also provides options for instructors to present their content in ways that are unique to their teaching styles and content.
Enabling DesignPLUS in Canvas
- Go to the page you want to edit.
- Click the "Edit" button.
- Open the DesignPLUS toolbar with the keyboard shortcut:
- Windows: Alt + Shift + D
- Mac: Option + Shift + D
- If you do not want to use the keyboard shortcut every time, you can click on the kebab menu on the DesignPLUS toolbar and choose "User Settings."
- Choose whether you want the DesignPLUS toolbar to always launch (first option) or whether you want the button to appear when editing a page (second option).

DesignPLUS Training
- Watch the "Getting Started with the New DesignPLUS Toolbar" YouTube video to see an overview of the product.
- Use the DesignPLUS User Guide to help you decide what content to use and view step-by-step instructions for creating that content.
- Contact COLRS to set up a Sandbox for you to practice in.
Examples of Content with DesignPLUS
Home Page

Syllabus
Without DesignPLUS
(see the full page screenshot for more detail)

With DesignPLUS
(see the full page screenshot for more detail)

Pages
Without DesignPLUS

With DesignPLUS
How COLRS Can Help

- COLRS has designed templates for you to use, which can be downloaded from the Canvas Commons. These templates come with instructions to help you guide you through the editing process.
- You can also access templates directly in the DesignPLUS toolbar by following the instructions for inserting template content in the DesignPLUS user guide.
- Join us on Zoom for office hours.
- Schedule a one-on-one appointment with one of our eLearning Specialists (Emily Boles, Carrie Levin, or Taylor Lester).
- Email us at colrs@uis.edu to request help with page design.
Examples
For examples from UIS faculty and staff, see the following pages:
- Sample Canvas Course Designs by Dr. Brian Chen, Public Health