TopicMatch is the UvA’s group tool in Canvas. TopicMatch offers the following functionalities:

  • Create topics (with a minimum and maximum number of places for students).
  • Allow students to submit their preferences for topics.
  • Automatically assign students to topics based on their preferences.
  • Adjust the assignment of students to the topics manually (if desired).
  • Write the assignment back to Canvas Groups (or download an overview).
Why should I use this tool?
  • The tool can save you time when you want to create groups based on preference, such as time of meeting or topic.
  • If you want to use the group layout somewhere other than within Canvas, you can export the layout to a .csv file.
What is this tool less suitable for?
  • You cannot create manual groups in this tool or ask students to sign themselves up for a particular group. If you do want to do this, you are better off using Canvas Groups.
When does this tool work best?
  • Informing students that they will not be guaranteed their first choice.
  • Making it clear what the choices entail.
  • You can create a new group formation as often as you like, the tool will then try to optimize the division. Check the layout before finalizing it.
  • Inform students that the algorithm only takes into account the favorites that are arranged in the desired order on the right side of the screen.
Where can I go if I need assistance?
  • For support in using TopicMatch and switching from Groupify, please contact your faculty Canvas support team.