In my experience using Canvas as both a student and a teaching assistant, I can confidently say that teachers do have the ability to see some student activity on the platform. However, it’s important to note that the level of visibility varies depending on the specific features and settings enabled by the instructor.
One of the main ways teachers can track student activity on Canvas is through the “Access Report” feature. This tool allows instructors to view a detailed log of student actions, such as when they log in, access specific course materials, submit assignments, participate in discussions, or view grades. It provides information on the date and time of each action, giving teachers a sense of when students are actively engaging with the course.
Additionally, teachers can also receive notifications when students submit assignments or participate in discussions. These notifications can be sent directly to their email inbox or within the Canvas platform itself. This feature helps instructors stay informed about student progress and allows them to provide timely feedback or support.
It’s worth noting that while teachers can see when students log into Canvas, they do not have access to specific details like the duration of the login session or what other tabs or websites the student may be using simultaneously. Canvas primarily focuses on tracking activity within the platform itself.
Furthermore, it’s important to mention that teachers’ visibility into student activity is not meant to be intrusive or to monitor students’ every move. Rather, it serves as a tool for educators to gauge student engagement, identify potential issues or challenges, and provide appropriate support and guidance.
Teachers using Canvas have some visibility into student activity, including when students log in, access course materials, submit assignments, and participate in discussions. However, the extent of this visibility depends on the specific features and settings enabled by the instructor. It’s important to remember that the purpose of tracking student activity is to enhance the learning experience and support students’ academic progress.