Last updated on March 12, 2024
Engage provides integrated access to publisher eTexts via Canvas, as well as access to other publisher-provided tools and resources – typically at a fraction of the print cost. Instructors and course coordinators can order eTexts and publisher Digital Learning Tools (DLTs) through the Order Tool.
Engage is part of the Learn@UW suite of learning technologies. More information about Engage, updates and events are available on the DoIT Academic Technology website.
Getting started
The first step for instructors (or course coordinators who request access through the DoIT Help Desk) is to purchase eTexts and other content through the Order Tool. This direct link to the Order Tool will only work for instructors and course coordinators set up during the ordering process. If an instructor purchases an eText or DLT directly from the publisher, the content will not be available through Engage.
The second step is for instructors to set up their Canvas course, either by adding the Engage eText tool or adding the DLT, depending on which they’ve purchased. Both documents provide other tips for preparing or using the respective tool.
The Engage eText reader and publisher DLT can be accessed by logging into Canvas.
Documentation is available on the Learn@UW–Madison KnowledgeBase and on Unizin’s Engage Resources page and offers helpful information on how to get started.
Pricing
The Engage eText reader is available at no cost. However, students do pay for the content – typically at a fraction of the print cost. Payment and financial aid adjustment are automatically conducted through student’s tuition billing process with the Bursar’s Office.
Students may opt out of purchasing their course’s eText (and DLT, if applicable); however, this is not recommended. Before opting out, students should review the conditions, considerations, and potential consequences outlined in this KnowledgeBase document. If, after careful consideration and a conversation with their instructors, students still want to opt-out, they will need to update their choice in the Order Tool. This can only be done during designated Student Choice periods. More information about this, including how to opt-out, can be found in the above linked KnowledgeBase document. Refunds for course drops will follow standard tuition refund rules.
Key features
- Significantly lower prices for eTexts (typically 40% to 80% off list print prices) and for DLTs (generally around 25% off list print prices)
- Provides instructors with usage data that may inform areas to emphasize in exam reviews and other activities
- Instructors can request to add Open Educational Resources (OER) to the Order Tool for ordering
- Streamlined ordering process for content from multiple publishers through the Order Tool
- Students retain access to eTexts for as long as they are a student at UW–Madison, no matter what individual publishers usually allow
- Students can print 100% of their eTexts for free – minus the cost of paper (printing instructions available here)
- Automatic ordering, payment and financial aid adjustment through student’s tuition billing process with the Bursar’s Office
Support
The DoIT Help Desk provides instructors, staff and students with free tech support and troubleshooting help by phone at (608) 264-4357, email and chat. In-person support is also available at the DoIT Help Desk service desk in the Computer Sciences building. Visit helpdesk.wisc.edu for hours and more information.
The DoIT Help Desk can provide support with questions and concerns regarding eTexts, billing, the Order Tool, accessibility, opt-outs, and general technical support. They cannot, however, provide support with publisher Digital Learning Tools (DLTs). Support for DLTs will need to be directed to the publisher. For more information, see the Support options KnowledgeBase document.
Instructors and instructional staff can also request a consultation through the DoIT Help Desk. A DoIT AT consultant will help you select and use the right eText/DLT for your course or figure out the best way to utilize them to improve student success. In addition, the Learn@UW–Madison KnowledgeBase and Unizin Engage Resources page offer helpful documentation for instructors and students.