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LMS Differences

When your course is migrated from Moodle or Blackboard, some elements may not be exactly the same. Below you will find comparisons of terminology, features, tools, and question types in each Learning Management System (LMS).

Moodle vs. Canvas

PDF: Compare Moodle and Canvas: Terminology, Tools, Features, Question Types

Video: Comparing Moodle and Canvas - from UNH (54:17)
Correction to this video: Classic Quizzes is still available (not being retired soon). Also, TAs must be added through SPIRE.

Blackboard vs. Canvas

PDF: Compare Blackboard and Canvas: Terminology, Tools, Features, Question Types

Video: Comparing Blackboard and Canvas - from ODU (11:28)

Canvas Terminology

Here is a side-by-side comparison of common terminology used in each LMS. This is not a complete list - please refer to the PDFs above for a more detailed comparison.

Comparison of Common Terminology in Each LMS
Canvas	Moodle	Blackboard
Dashboard	Dashboard and Navigation Tray	My UMass Amherst Page
Home Page	General Section in Course Page	Home Page
Modules	Topics	Folders
Module Text Headers	Labels	Items
Course Navigation Menu	Activities Block	Course Menu/Sidebar
Files	Files and Folders	Files
Pages	Page or Topic Description	Content Areas/Items
Assignments	Assignments	Assignments
Discussions	Forums	Discussion Boards
Quizzes	Quiz or Questionnaire	Test
Publish Unpublish	Show Hide	Show/Make Available Hide/Make Unavailable
Module Requirements, Prerequisites, or "Lock Until"	Restrict Access, Completion Tracking	Adaptive Release, Date Restrictions
Peer Review Assignment	Workshop	Peer Review Tool

External Tools and Integrations

View the full list of external tools that are integrated within Canvas by going to this page: List of Current External Tools and Request Form. Also on that page is a request form if you'd like to request additional external tools to be installed in Canvas.