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OVERVIEW
This article outlines the changes to LTI apps as part of the transition to Canvas Cloud.
WHAT ARE LTI Apps?
Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) refers to a standard method for integrating third-party learning and teaching tools in an LMS. As Canvas supports the LTI framework, additional apps can be easily integrated for use in SFU courses.
At SFU, selected LTI apps have been globally installed into Canvas, making them automatically available across all courses. Some LTI apps may be installed at the departmental level, which allows these LTI apps to be installed in courses within that department. Additionally, instructors have the option to install specific LTI apps directly within their individual courses. These LTI apps can be installed through the Canvas App Center or can be embedded in the course using modules such as the Rich Text Editor.
Instructors can see installed LTI apps by visiting their course Settings > Apps > View App Configurations.
For more information, visit Instructure’s article on What are External Apps (LTI Tools).
CHANGES TO MANUAL CONFIGURATIONS
The ability for instructors to install other LTI apps directly in their courses using Add App via manual configuration will no longer be available in Canvas Cloud. Instructors can continue installing LTI apps through the Canvas App Center, however, only on LTI apps that have completed a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA).
Installing LTI apps that have not undergone a privacy or data security review introduces privacy and data security risks. Some LTI apps can potentially transmit student data to other third parties without the student’s consent or knowledge and may violate FIPPA laws.
While addressing these risks is important, these LTI apps are also key pedagogical tools used to support learning and teaching. By introducing a new LTI management framework by centrally managing LTI apps, we aim to address these risks while maintaining continuity in our learning and teaching practices.
Information and support for the PIA process is available through Archives and Records Management.
Approved LTI apps
By law, all LTI apps require a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA). A Security Threat and Risk Assessment (STRA) ensures that the apps we use meet our data security standards. The following LTI apps are approved for use by all instructors at SFU.
- Crowdmark
- Dialectical Map
- iClicker
- Library Reserves (Leganto)
- Mediasite
- Zoom
Some departments have also completed PIAs for specific LTI apps. Check the Completed Privacy Impact Assessment page on the Archives and Records Management department’s website for a complete list.
All other LTI apps require a course-level PIA to be completed by the instructor before they can be added to the course. Information and support for the PIA process is available through Archives and Records Management.
How to install an LTI app in a course
Instructors and course owners can install LTI apps by visiting the Canvas App Center. Go to your course Settings > Apps and you'll see a list of available LTI apps.
For step-by-step instructions, visit Instructure’s article on How do I use the Canvas App Center in a course?
TECHNICAL SUPPORT FOR LTI APPS
Some LTI apps in the Canvas App Centre may require a consumer key and shared secret before it can be used. If you plan to use an LTI app that requires these credentials, please contact the vendor directly to obtain the necessary key and secret.
NEED ADDITIONAL SUPPORT?
For pedagogical or instructional design questions:
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