Sending an email to a student's university email account from Canvas

[KenBurger]

I am a new Canvas user and my online classes have just started.  My issue: a number of students have not visited the course in Canvas for the first time (Canvas is new to all of the students as well since my university just switched to Canvas).  All of the information I have read about communicating with students (i.e., announcements and Inbox) seem to assume that the students are logged into the course in Canvas and will check announcements and the messages in their Canvas Inbox.  

My Q:  is there an option in Canvas where I can send a message (or announcement) to their University email address to encourage them to access the course for the first time so they can see the announcements and messages I have posted about getting started in the class?

Thanks in advance for any help on this issue.

Ken Burger

kburger@trevecca.edu

[masantos · Accepted solution]

Hello @KenBurger 

Unfortunately, there is no way to email directly to students' email in Canvas. The announcements and inbox are strictly within Canvas. They could however, get email notifications from Canvas to their emails. It is also depending on the level of notifications defaulted at your institution. 

You may have to email your students outside of Canvas to inform them about the Canvas course. Do you have access to getting a list of your student emails using your institution's SIS (school information system)?

-MaryAnn