St. Petersburg College uses Canvas Learning Management System to facilitate high-quality online, blended, and face-to-face learning experiences. To support diverse instructional needs and streamline course management, SPC utilizes several distinct types of Canvas courses, including Blueprint courses, standard courses, development courses, and commons. Each type serves a specific purpose in the course creation and delivery process. This guide will help you understand the differences between these course types, when and how they are used, and best practices for managing them effectively.

 

Types of Courses in Canvas
Type Prefix Example Notes
Blueprint BLPT BLPT_FIN4414_Online_0495 Centrally managed template courses that ensure consistency across sections. Allows pushing standardized content to associated courses automatically. Some areas (like quizzes) can be locked to maintain consistent student experience. Changes propagate to all connected courses.
Collegiate High COLGH COLGH_THF_0640_Nelson  
Community COM COM_Book Club of SPCHS Collaborative spaces for groups/departments. Provides centralized communication and resource sharing outside traditional courses. Note: SPC uses both Titan Hub Groups and Canvas Communities - see Surveys for Faculty for guidance.
Course OFR OFR_AAP0018_4704_0525 Regular Canvas course.
Development DEV DEV_SPN1121_Online Build/test environment not connected to live enrollments. Used for course planning and experimentation.
Master MSTR MSTR_FIN4414_Online IDEAS: Department level request courses
Merged OFR_MERGED OFR_MERGED_2132_0615 Combines multiple sections into one course space. Manage content once for all students. Can still view/grade by individual section.
Parent PRNT PRNT_AMH2010 IDEAS: Completed development/review process
Sandbox SBOX SBOX_Jane_Smart  
Standard STND STND_BUL2241_BLENDED IDEAS-reviewed. Follows QM standards, created by DF with IDS after APPQMR/DOC training. High quality benchmark courses.
Template TEM TEM_CHM1025  
Training TRNG TRNG_CETL001_2023  

Have Questions? Contact the Academic Technology Support Team

ATST@spcollege.edu 

 Phone at 727-341-3500 

(Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST).

After-hours or weekend assistance? Contact the Technical Support Center at 727-791-2795 or onlinehelp@spcollege.edu

Want to Schedule a One-on-One or Group Session on Canvas or other instructional technology issues or opportunities?

Schedule 1:1 Support Help with a Member of the Academic Technology Support Team

 

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