Engaging students in challenging readings via Canvas and Perusall

In 17.20 where students are learning how political scientists think about politics, an organized Canvas site structure and Perusall (an integrated tool) help to engage students in important discussions. 

Devin Caughey, Class of 1949 Professor of Political Science & Director of Graduate Studies, and undergraduate student Sandra Youssef ‘26, collaborated with Open Learning Residential Education to improve the 17.20 Canvas course site for students. The improvements, resulting from a 2024 Summer Canvas Innovation Fund project, include easier access to weekly materials from the homepage, clear expectations on what students need to do each week, and the use of Perusall to allow students to collaboratively share their thoughts on the course’s most challenging readings. 

Watch this 2-min. video of Devin and Sandra describing why these changes were needed and the positive results. 

Want support in thinking through how to make improvements to your Canvas site or use of Canvas-related tools? Check out the Canvas Innovation Fund. You can also email ol-residential@mit.edu to seek help or consult with the Residential Education team.