Preferences are complex
Students value schedules, pathways, faculty, requirements, and peer learning differently.
A Canvas-compatible course bidding and seat allocation prototype.
Better course bidding and seat allocation for Canvas LMS.
A decision system for assigning scarce course seats more fairly, transparently, and intelligently.
The problem
Scarce seats create difficult decisions.
Processes feel opaque
When allocation rules are hard to understand, even reasonable outcomes lose trust.
Staff carry the burden
Exceptions and manual reconciliation consume time needed for student support.
The goal
A fair, understandable allocation workflow
Express real preferences
Let students signal priorities clearly within a structured bidding process.
Apply consistent rules
Allocate seats using documented constraints and explainable outcomes.
Work with Canvas
Design for roster handoff and administrative reality rather than a disconnected tool.
Core ideas
Fairness needs both logic and stewardship.
Transparent criteria
Make the rules, constraints, and tie-breaking methods legible before bidding begins.
Allocation insight
Show demand patterns and outcomes so administrators can improve future offerings.
Human review
Support appropriate exceptions without weakening consistency or accountability.
Why it matters
Course access affects student experience.
A seat allocation system is not only scheduling infrastructure. It communicates what an institution values and how fairly it acts under constraint.
Begin thoughtfully