Request External Tool (LTI) in Canvas

Environment

Canvas

Issue

How do I request an external tool (LTI, app) be added to Canvas?

Resolution

There are a number of external tools (also called LTIs or apps) available that extend the functionality of Canvas. Some are pre-installed in Canvas and can be enabled in a course by adding the tool to the course navigation or when configuring an assignment.

External tools are associated with textbooks, practice tests, ways of collaborating between peer learners, and supplemental published materials that integrate into the LMS. External tools frequently have accessibility challenges due to the nature of the material. Some publisher’s lack commitment to accessibility, for example in their use of frames. Inaccessible collaboration tools offer a high degree features that benefit non-disabled learners, which do not consider the needs of diverse learners.

• Consider the list of available tools in course navigation settings before looking into external options 
  • Many pre-approved tools will appear here and can be activated by enabling them on your course navigation menu

Request New External Tool

1. See the Canvas External Tools guide for a list of the tools currently available for all course sites
   1. If the external tool is not listed, fill out this form to request the external tool installation
      1. Once we receive your request, we will follow up with with you regarding the reason for use, and the course the external should be added to
   2. If the external tool is listed, you will need to enable the tool following the instructions for Enabling External Tools
2. ITS Teaching and Learning will provide a conditional installation, which installs the external in a specific course only - not for use by all Canvas instructors
   1. We will work with the tool provider to secure a FERPA agreement (this will ensure that student data is treated responsibly and the University of Michigan will maintain ownership of any data) and an assessment of tool accessibility

Tool Approval

• In order for a external tool to be provided for all Canvas instructors, ITS Teaching & Learning must first secure a FERPA agreement. 
• Note: The process of approval can take some time
• ITS Teaching & Learning will notify the requestor when the external tool is approved
• If the external tool is approved for use by all instructors in Canvas, the tool will be added to the list of approved external tool on the Safe Computing site
  • The listing will include a description of the tool, what data has been approved, and links to more information
• If the external tool is not approved for use by all instructors in Canvas, there are two outcomes:
  • The tool may be approved for use only by the instructor who requested it
  • The tool is not approved for any use due to data stewardship or security concerns

Additional Information

• Check out the new Academic Technology@Michigan website for course planning resources from across U-M
• Visit the Canvas @ Michigan site for faculty including the U-M Instructor Guide with links to additional support resources from across campus
• Check out the Canvas and MiVideo tutorials

For additional questions, please contact the ITS Service Center