Engage

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.

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
  • Allows instructors to add external content, like Open Educational Resources (OER) in PDF format
  • 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 eTexts up to 50 pages at a time, for free – minus cost of paper (instructional available here)
  • Automatic ordering, payment and financial aid adjustment through student’s tuition billing process with the Bursar’s Office

Integrations

The Engage eText reader is integrated with the Canvas learning management system. Annotations, note taking, collaboration, Q&A, and more can be accessed from within the Engage platform. 

Publisher DLTs have seperate integrations via Canvas, providing additional functionality depending on publisher tools. These integrations are managed by the publisher.

Ordering Process for Instructors & Course Coordinators

To allow time for billing to occur through the tuition process, instructors must complete their order by a deadline usually set several weeks prior to a new semester. During this designated ordering period, instructors can order eTexts, DLTs and other content through the Order Tool. Course coordinators can request to be added to the Order Tool by contacting the DoIT Help Desk so that they can order eTexts and DLTs on behalf of their instructors. This direct link to the Order Tool will only work for instructors and course coordinators set up during the ordering process.

Information on how to order can be found in this KnowledgeBase document.

Opt-Out Process for Students

Students may opt out of purchasing their course’s eText (and DLT, if applicable); however, this is not recommended. By opting out, students:

  • Lose access to all features and benefits of the eText (as well as the course’s DLT, if applicable, as a student cannot opt out of one or the other)
  • Miss out on additional content the instructor may add to the eText as well as the ability to engage with the instructor and classmates within the eText, both of which may be factored into grading and could significantly impact success
  • Become responsible for acquiring legally obtained, alternate versions of all required course materials. Purchasing the loose leaf copy of the text (if available) from the UW Bookstore will no longer be an option
  • Risk falling behind in the course if alternative versions of the same materials are not acquired prior to the first day of the class

This list is not comprehensive as students may miss other benefits depending on the specific course and instructor. 

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 choose to opt out, they will need to complete and submit a formal opt-out request form. Refunds for course drops will follow standard tuition refund rules.

Getting Started

The first step for instructors (or course coordinators) is to purchase eTexts and other content through the Order Tool. 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.

Known Issues

Like all technologies, the Engage platform continues to evolve to meet instructor and student needs. However, there are some known issues that may impact how users interact with the tool. The Learn@UW-Madison team continues to partner with the vendor to address these issues, but in the meantime, please be aware of the following:

Known issues for DLTs may be located on publisher websites or support sites. Please reach out to the publisher if there are any questions regarding known issues in DLTs.

Helpful Resources

Support

The DoIT Help Desk provides instructors, staff, and students with free tech support and troubleshooting help by phone at 608.264.4357, email at help@doit.wisc.edu and chat at helpdesk.wisc.edu. 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, review this 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.