Case Study: Brigham Young University–Hawaii boosts global distance learning and student engagement with Canvas LMS

Canvas’ video features and flexibility power growth of worldwide distance learning program

BYU–Hawaii’s global distance program—serving students in 27 countries—struggled with retention and engagement because learners often felt disconnected from peers and instructors. Administrators needed an LMS that supported synchronous and asynchronous video, made video submissions easy to manage and grade, and was simple enough for widespread adoption; previous platforms proved unreliable and cumbersome.

Canvas provided an integrated, cloud-hosted solution with built-in video, a user-friendly interface, and SpeedGrader for streamlined feedback. The platform enabled “video mail” interactions, faster course launch, and easier content management (preview, drag‑and‑drop), leading to higher participation, improved student learning and retention, more flexible pedagogical choices, and better instructor–student and peer-to-peer engagement.

Brigham Young University

Gael Weberg

Instructional Course Designer