Comparing Quiz and Exam Options in ISU Canvas

This article provides instructions on how to determine which quiz tool to use in ISU Canvas at Idaho State University (ISU).

• Option 1: ISU Canvas Classic Quizzes
• Option 2: ISU Canvas New Quizzes
• Option 3: Atomic Assessments (LTI)
• Comparing the Options

Overview:

Classic Quizzes is the original quiz tool in Canvas. When you import Moodle quizzes into Canvas, they automatically convert to Classic Quizzes. While Classic Quizzes are still available, they will eventually be phased out in favor of New Quizzes. No sunset date for Classic Quizzes has been determined.

Key Features:

• Supports multiple-choice, true/false, short answer, and essay questions
• Allows question banks for randomization
• Offers basic accommodations (extra time, attempts)
• Integrated with SpeedGrader for manual grading

Limitations:

• Limited question types compared to New Quizzes
• No built-in item analysis for question performance

Best For:

• Faculty who want a simple quiz option with familiar Canvas functionality
• Assessments that do not require advanced question types or proctoring

Overview:

New Quizzes is the latest quiz engine in Canvas, designed to offer more robust features and question types. It will eventually replace Classic Quizzes. 

Key Features:

• More question types (ordering, categorization, hotspot, stimulus-based questions)
• Item banks that can be shared across courses
• Ability to set per-question accommodations
• Improved analytics for student performance

Limitations:

• Different interface from Classic Quizzes (learning curve for faculty)
• Some third-party tools do not integrate as seamlessly (e.g., proctoring service, publisher question banks)
• Quiz migration from Classic Quizzes requires manual adjustments

Best For:

• Faculty who want advanced question types and analytics
• Courses requiring more engaging and interactive assessments

Overview:

Atomic Assessment is an external tool (LTI) in ISU Canvas that provides even more flexibility and control over question types and delivery options. Atomic Assessment offers over 20 different question types, including a variety of specialized and advanced options.

Key Features:

• Supports a variety of advanced question types, including formula-based, adaptive, and hotspot questions.
• Integrates seamlessly into Canvas, enabling assessments in pages, discussions, announcements, and assignments.
• Provides advanced analytics for detailed student performance tracking.
• Offers enhanced security and proctoring options for high-stakes exams.
• Allows greater customization of assessment settings.

Limitations:

• Not built directly into Canvas—requires adding as an LTI tool
• More complex setup and grading process compared to Canvas Classic and New Quizzes
• May not be necessary for basic assessments

Best For:

• Faculty needing more specialized question types including formula-based questions, adaptive questions, and hotspot questions
• Courses with high-stakes exams needing more security
• Instructors who need detailed analytics on student responses

See the Atomic Assessments Knowledge Base (external link) for more information.

Summary

• Use Classic Quizzes for a simple, familiar option with basic question types and features.
• Use New Quizzes for enhanced question types, better analytics, and future-proofing assessments.
• Use Atomic Assessment for high-stakes exams or specialized question types.

• Chat with Canvas Support for Faculty (external link)
• Canvas Instructor Guides (external link)
• Visit the ITRC Portal for answers to common questions (external link)
• For additional assistance email AnswersITRC@isu.edu (external link)