Students cannot upload files directly to the Canvas Files tool. If students need to share files, there are a few options within Canvas. Outside of Canvas, instructors can create a Google Drive folder, add students to the folder, and ask students to upload files. For options within Canvas, see below.
Discussions
Students can attach files to discussion threads that have the Attach files to discussions option enabled. To check whether students are able to attach files to discussions, follow the steps below.
- Go to Discussions in the course.
- Click on the Settings gear.
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Select the checkbox for Attach files to discussions.
- Click Save Settings.
Course Group
When creating a Group, a separate mini-Canvas course within the primary course becomes available to students who have been added to the group. In the mini-course, students can upload files to the Files tool. Follow the steps below to set up groups.
- Go to the People tool.
- Click +Group Set and give the group set a name.
- Select whether you want to students to self-sign up to a group or whether you will add students manually.
- Click Save.
- Click +Group.
- Give the Group a name and click Save.
- Add the students to the group by dragging the names of all the students into the group. If you opted for self sign-up, students can enroll themselves.
Once students are added to a group, they can access the group page, allowing them to upload files. Instructors can access the group page by clicking on the Settings gear to the right of the group name and selecting Visit Group Homepage.
Harmonize
Harmonize is a tool that allows students to engage in rich discussions and collaboration. Students can upload multiple files directly within posts and easily record audio and video comments.
You are welcome to explore our Harmonize Canvas course. The Harmonize tool is added to all Canvas courses and can be enabled by going to the course Settings > Navigation > drag Harmonize Discussions to the top section > scroll down and Save.