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Using Files as a course space

Why Would I Want to Share the Files Area?

This is a valid question that actually we hope our faculty will help us answer over time as they become more expert practitioners of Canvas course design. However, one could envision a course space in which the primary goal is to share content, but not require students to complete assignments or participate in other interactive activities.  Note: If the objective is to facilitate interactive file sharing between members, a better option would be to create a group with shared Files access in the course space. This concept is discussed in the Canvas Guide available at:

http://guides.instructure.com/s/2204/m/4212/l/55567-how-do-i- store-and-share-files-within-my-group

 

The Download Files

area is by default a repository for
content; each course has its own
Files area. Building a course space
entails linking files (docx, pdf, pptx,
etc.) located in the Files area into
the course space itself. You can
additionally upload files from your
local computer to the Files area,
 either one at a time, or in bulk via a zipped file. 


 

For the most part, the Files area is not designed to be student facing. Exposure to file content is generally achieved in the file links you provide in the course space that provides a view of a single file at a time.

 

Locking Files

 By default all files in the Files area are available to students. You can hide this entire space from students in the course settings by disabling the tool. This will still allow students access to files you link within pages and modules (example above).

However, TAs and instructors do have the option of “locking” files so they will not be visible, either permanently or for a designated period of time. This is particularly useful if you decide to set up your course with primary access to files as a feature for your students. (Note, students cannot upload files to the course Files area. Look at link above if file sharing is your main intent.)

See the canvas guides on locking files: https://guides.instructure.com/d/xp6w34