On your modules page in Canvas, click on the "+" icon next to the module where you would like the chat tool to be located.

Select "External Tool" to add then scroll down and click on "Chat Tool" from the list of options.

Scroll down to the bottom of the page and give the page a name if you wish, select the option to load in a new tab, then click the "Add Item" button.

The item has now been added to your course. Don't forget to publish it so that others may access the tool as well.

To start a chat with the course, simply click on the chat tool item that was added to the module in your course.

Click the button to load the course in a new window.

At the bottom of the page, there will be a bar where you can type your message. There is also the option to add emojis. When you are finished typing your message, click on the "Send" button.

You can now view your message in the chat log that displays your name, date, and the time that you sent the message. Others can join in on the conversation by adding their own comment. There currently is no option to reply to comments however.

If you wish to be notified when a new message has been posted, turn on the "New message alerts" option that can be found in the top right corner of the page.