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What is Canvas and how do I use it?

Published 31/10/2017 02.53 PM   |    Updated 28/04/2026 04.05 PM

Canvas is Swinburne’s online learning system. You use it for your studies.

In Canvas, you can:   

  • View unit outlines
  • Access lecture notes
  • Watch lecture recordings (Echo360)
  • Join online discussions
  • Submit assignments

It brings your learning together in one place.

How do I access Canvas?  

Important:

  • Swinburne Online (SOL) uses a different login page
  • SOL units are accessed via swinburneonline.instructure.com

Why are units referred to as 'courses' in Canvas?  

  • Canvas uses the word 'course' for a unit.
  • It mean one subject you are studying 

Need help getting started?  

Support for Canvas  

You can access the Canvas Support for Students module inside Canvas.

Once logged in:

  • Go to your Dashboard
  • Open the support module

You can also access it directly here: swinburne.instructure.com/courses/18878 

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