Request a Canvas Learning Tool (LTI)

Canvas and Third-Party Applications (LTIs)

If you’re using a third-party application in your teaching, you may wish to connect that tool to Canvas to share data. For example, if you assess students using the tool, you may wish to send grades you assign to a column in the Canvas Gradebook.

These connections are referred to as LTI Tools or simply LTIs. Most third-party tools offer a Canvas LTI.

Since LTIs share sensitive student data and affect Canvas functionality, they must undergo a thorough review prior to being implemented. This review process can take several months, so we recommend requesting a new LTI at least one semester prior to when you need it installed in Canvas. For more information about the review process, see “LTI Review Process” below.

Important Note

While Ball State Canvas admins are responsible for installing and managing LTIs, Ball State cannot provide technical support resources for third-party tools that are not institutionally licensed. If you need support for an LTI, contact support from the third-party vendor.

Requesting a Canvas LTI

Step 1: Does the Tool Need to Share Data?

To request a Canvas LTI, begin by answering this question: Does the tool need to share data with Canvas? In many cases, third-party tools can be used without ever sharing data with Canvas, such as by embedding the tool in a Canvas page or linking students to open the tool in a new window. Typically, the tool only needs to share data with Canvas if you are using the tool for assessment and wish to send grades to the Canvas Gradebook.

For tools that do not need to share data with Canvas, you do not need an LTI and should either embed the tool or link to the tool from Canvas.

For tools that do need to share data with Canvas, continue on to Step 2.

Step 2: Is the Tool Already Available?

Next, check to ensure the tool isn’t already available at Ball State by contacting the Division of Online and Strategic Learning (strategiclrn@bsu.edu | 765-285-1763). If the tool is already available, our team can show you how to install it on your course in Canvas.

Step 3: Complete the LTI Request Form

If the tool needs to share data and isn’t currently available, complete this form to request it as a new LTI. Providing proper information expedites the review process. We have recently updated the form and further guidance is coming soon.

LTI Review Process

Step 1: Initial Review

First, a committee will conduct an initial review. The goal of this review is to determine if the LTI is appropriate, does not present any contractual issues, and does not present any major issues that would immediately disqualify it.

Most LTIs pass the initial review, and this process typically takes 1-2 weeks.

Step 2: Accessibility, Legal, and Student Data Review

After passing Step 1, the Enterprise Project Management Office (EPMO) coordinates reviews for accessibility, legal terms, and student data privacy. These reviews typically take several months. Some LTIs fail to pass these reviews, while others continue to Step 3.

Step 3: Installing the LTI

After passing Steps 1 and 2, the LTI is returned to Canvas admins from the Division of Online and Strategic Learning to install and configure. At this point, we will work with you to ensure the LTI is properly configured and connected to your Canvas courses.

Questions about LTIs? Contact the Division of Online and Strategic Learning at strategiclrn@bsu.edu or 765-285-1763.

Strategic Learning

Ball Communication Building (BC), Room 220

7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern, Monday-Friday

765-285-1763