What is the Chat tool?
The Chat Tool is a text-based feature in Canvas for live, real-time conversations with everyone enrolled in your course. It’s designed for quick questions, discussions, and staying connected. (NOTE: This tool is not the same as the Canvas Chat Support.)
How to Access the Chat Tool in Your Course
The Chat tool is not in the usual course navigation menu. Instead, your instructor may choose to add it to a Module in your course. If there is no chat located within your modules, then your instructor has most likely chosen not to use this tool.
If your instructor has added it:
Go to the Modules section of your course.
Look for the item labeled Chat in the module.
Click on it to open the real-time chat space.
Who Can Use It?
- All enrolled students, instructors, and TAs in the course.
- Guests or external users cannot join.
- Your instructor can choose to turn Chat on or off in your course settings.
Key Features:
You can use chat for:
- Virtual office hours
- Live Q&A sessions
- Study groups
- Class help sessions
Always-Visible Chat History
- All messages stay visible to everyone in the course.
- You cannot delete or edit your own messages.
Moderation, Privacy, and Security
- You can not send messages to specific people, think of it as a whole group.
- Instructors can edit or delete any message in Chat.
- Students can only post—they cannot remove or edit any posts.
- Only people enrolled in your course can see and use Chat.
- No one outside the course can access it.
Tips for Students
- Follow your instructor’s guidelines for appropriate use and expected response times.
- Use Chat to connect, ask questions, or collaborate with classmates.
- Check Announcements or Modules for any scheduled Chat sessions or links.
- Remember that anything you post will be visible to everyone in the course.