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.
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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