Canvas Commons Guide

Authors Instructure Inc.

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COMMONS GUIDE

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike License
Commons Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction ...........................................................................................................................................................................................4
What is Canvas Commons? ...............................................................................................................................................5

Instructor.................................................................................................................................................................................................9
How do I use Commons? .................................................................................................................................................. 10
How do I preview resources in Commons? .............................................................................................................. 21
How do I import and view a Commons resource in Canvas?............................................................................. 32
How can I leave a review for a resource in Commons?........................................................................................ 41
How do I add and manage Favorites in Commons?............................................................................................... 45
How do I view my imported and shared resources in Commons?................................................................... 49
How do I import Commons Favorites in the Rich Content Editor in Canvas? ............................................ 54
How do I import a favorite assignment from Commons to Canvas as an instructor? ............................. 62
How do I import a favorite discussion from Commons to Canvas as an instructor? ............................... 67
How do I import a favorite page from Commons to Canvas as an instructor? ........................................... 72
How do I import a favorite quiz from Commons to Canvas as an instructor? ............................................ 76
How do I import a Commons favorite as a module item in Canvas as an instructor? .............................. 80
How do I view updates to resources I previously imported from Commons?............................................ 85
What information do I need to share a resource to Commons? ...................................................................... 93
How do I add a thumbnail image to my shared resource? .................................................................................. 96
What types of content licenses are available in Commons? .......................................................................... 102
What types of sharing options are available in Commons? ............................................................................ 106
What types of document and media files can be shared to Commons? ..................................................... 111
How do I share a course to Commons? ................................................................................................................... 113
How do I share a resource to Commons? ............................................................................................................... 121
How do I share a document, image, video, or audio file to Commons? ...................................................... 128
How do I update a resource I previously shared to Commons? .................................................................... 135
How do I edit the details of a resource in Commons? ....................................................................................... 142
How do I manage Groups in Commons? ................................................................................................................. 148
Commons Guide

How do I manage approved content in Commons?............................................................................................ 152

Admin .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 156
How do I view account settings in Commons? ..................................................................................................... 157
How do I edit my account settings in Commons? ............................................................................................... 163
How do I edit the details of a resource in Commons as an admin? .............................................................. 168
How do I allow and manage approved content in Commons? ....................................................................... 175
How do I manage shared resources for my account in Commons? ............................................................. 182
How do I manage Consortiums in Commons? ..................................................................................................... 188
How do I create and manage Groups in Commons? .......................................................................................... 193
How do I view resource statistics in Commons? ................................................................................................. 197
How do I remove Canvas Commons from my institution's Canvas account as an admin? ................. 202
Commons Guide

Introduction

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What is Canvas Commons?

Commons is a learning object repository that enables educators to find, import, and share resources. A digital library full of
educational content, Commons allows Canvas users to share learning resources with other users as well as import learning
resources into a Canvas course.

Getting Started with Commons
To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager. To access Commons, you need to
have an email address associated with your Canvas account.

Notes:

• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing, and
sharing public resources.
• Commons includes similar functionality with Blueprint Courses. To learn more about Blueprint Courses, see the Course
Distribution Comparison resource document.

What can I do with Commons?
• Create a personal learning object repository
• Build a course from scratch with relevant materials shared by other Canvas users
• Create a name for yourself and your institution as a subject matter expert

Find Resources in Commons

Find resources by searching for a specific keyword, author, institution, or title.

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Import to Canvas

Import a resource into a Canvas course. Once the import to Canvas is complete, you can start using and customizing your
resource.

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Share to Commons

Share resources you create in Canvas with other Canvas users, with colleagues and groups at your institution, or with only you.

Update Resources

If you modify a resource (learning activity) in Canvas that was previously shared to Commons, you can share the modified
resource to Commons again. The existing resource will be updated in Commons.

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Learn how to update resources previously shared to Commons.

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Instructor

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How do I use Commons?

You can use Commons to search for and import content into your Canvas courses. You can also share resources to
Commons from your Canvas courses.

Learn more about Canvas Commons.

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager. To access Commons,
you need to have an email address associated with your Canvas account.
• Users who can create or edit course content in Canvas also have access to Commons. This includes Admins, Teachers,
Designers, and TAs. If an institution does not want student TAs to have access to Commons, an account admin should
create a custom TA role in Canvas that does not have permission to create or edit course content.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• The Resource Previews feature is currently an optional feature and must be enabled by an administrator in Commons.
If your institution has not enabled Resource Previews, the resource details page may look different.

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Open Commons

In Global Navigation, click the Commons link.

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Find Resources

A resource in Commons can be a course, module, quiz, assignment, discussion, page, document, video, image, or audio file. Each
resource type has a unique icon. Look for these related colors and icons when searching for resources. To find resources in
Commons, use the search field [1]. You can search for keywords such as author, institution, or title. You can also search by
outcome, consortium, or group.

To sort search results by Most Relevant, Latest, Most Favorited, or Most Downloaded, click the Sort by drop-down menu [2].

To apply search filters to your search, click the Filter button [3].

Based on your selected filters, the number of results are displayed in the page [4]. To search everything available to you in
Commons, leave the search field and filters blank.

You can also view featured content in the results page [5]. Featured content includes high quality content that is featured in the
Commons search page. Featured content can be imported or downloaded like any other content in Commons.

Note: Depending on the account settings set by your Canvas admin, you may be unable to view and/or share public content.

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Filter Search Results

To narrow your search, or to search by filter, use one or more of the filter options:

• Approved Resources [1]: If your admin has enabled approved resources, you can filter results to only show approved
resources.
• Type [2]: You can filter by resource type (e.g., Courses, Modules, Assignments, Quizzes, Discussions, Pages, Documents,
Images, Videos, or Audio).
• Content Types [3]: You can filter by template or open textbook.
• Grade/Levels [4]: You can select specific grades or level of education to narrow your search (e.g., K-12, Undergraduate,
Graduate).
• Shared With [5]: You can filter results by resources shared publicly, in your account, in a group, or in a consortium.

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View Content Card

In search results, resource details are displayed on content cards. Each card displays the following details:

• Approved Resource icon [1]: Identify institution-approved resources. Note that the approved resources feature must be
enabled by an account admin.
• Resource icon [2]: Identify the resource type
• Title [3]: View the title of the resource
• Grade level(s) [4]: View the grade/level of the resource
• Author [5]: View the author of the resource
• Downloads and Favorites icons [6]: View the number of times a resource has been downloaded and imported or added as a
favorite.

To preview a resource, view more details, or import a resource, click the resource title.

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View Resource

The content overview page loads the Preview tab by default. The sidebar contains further information and links:

• Favorites and Downloads [1]: Displays the number of times a resource has been added as a favorite or downloaded
• Date of last update [2]: Date when content was last updated by an author
• License [3]: Displays either the Copyright or Creative Commons content license
• Thumbnail and Approved Icon [4]: Resource thumbnail and, if applicable, the approved resource icon
• Import/Download button [5]: Button to download or import the resource
• Size and Type [6]: Size of resource file(s) and the type of content
• Favorites button [7]: Add the resource to your Favorites
• Copy Resource button [8]: copy the resource link to your clipboard

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View Resource Preview

To preview resource content, click the Preview tab. The Preview tab is shown by default.

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View Resource Details

In the Details tab, you can view a summary of the resource and related information:

• Description [1]: A brief explanation or summary of the resource
• Author(s) [2]: User(s) who shared the resource
• Account [3]: The account from which the resource was shared
• Grade/Level [4]: The suggested grade level(s) for the resource
• Tags [5]: Relevant tags or keywords to identify the resource
• Duration [6]: Duration of an audio or video file. Only applicable to audio or video resources
• Outcomes [7]: Outcomes linked to a resource. Only applicable to resources with linked outcomes
• Shared With [8]: Sharing settings (account, group(s), consortium(s), public, private)
• Reviews [9]: Reviews by other users

When you are ready to import a resource, click the Import/Download button and select a course.

Note: Not all resources will display all details. Listed details depend on the type of resource and information provided by the
author.

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View Version Notes

To view any updates made to the resource, click the Version notes tab. Updates are sorted by date and time and may include a
description of changes made.

Share a Resource

You can share a variety of resources to Commons from your Canvas course, including a Canvas course, course content, and files.

View Commons Guides

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To view a list of helpful Commons guides, click the Guides link.

Access Commons Guides

To access all the Commons guides, click the Canvas Commons Guides link [1]. To access a specific Commons guide, click the link
of the corresponding guide [2].

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You can access the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Help in the footer in any page in Commons.

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How do I preview resources in Commons?

You can preview resources in Commons before importing the resource into your Canvas course. In the search results, you
can preview video and audio files for up to 10 seconds. Learn about supported file types in Commons.

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• Resources can be opened in a new tab by pressing Command (Mac) or Control (PC) while clicking the resource name in
the Search page, or, by right clicking the name of the resource.
• The Resource Previews feature is currently an optional feature and must be enabled by an administrator in Commons.
If your institution has not enabled Resource Previews, the resource details page may look different.

Find Resource

Locate a resource by using the search field [1].

You can sort resources by Most Relevant, Latest, Most Favorited, or Most Downloaded [2].

You can also filter search results [3]. Learn more about searching in Commons.

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Open Course

To preview a course, click the course title.

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Preview Course

In the course details page, you can preview the various learning activities within the course. To preview course content, click a
section in the sidebar [1]. Content is listed in the preview area [2]. Each content item displays the content type icon [3] and the
published status icon [4]. If applicable, points possible are also shown [5].

To preview a content item, click the item title [6]

To download the file to your computer, click the Import/Download button [7].

Note: If a course does not contain a particular learning activity (e.g. quizzes), it will not be included in the course details.

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Preview Course Content

Content item previews can include the item's title, description, submission requirements, points possible, links, and
attachments. Information provided in the preview depends on the type of content being previewed.

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Open Module

To preview a module, click the module title.

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Preview Module

In the module details page, you can preview items in the module. To preview module content, click a section in the sidebar [1].
Content is listed in the preview area [2]. Each content item displays the content type icon [3] and the published status icon [4].

To preview a content item, click the item title [5].

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Preview Module Content

Content item previews can include the item's title, description, submission requirements, points possible, links, and
attachments. Information provided in the resource preview depends on the type of content being previewed.

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Open Document or Image

In the search results page, click the title of the document [1] or image [2] you want to preview.

Note: Some image thumbnails are cropped automatically.

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Preview Document or Image

In the resource details page, you can preview the image or document before importing it into your course [1]. You can also view
the file type and size [2].

To import the file into your course or to download the file to your computer, click the Import/Download button [3].

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Open Media File

In the search results page, you can preview video and audio files (up to 10 seconds). To preview a video, hover your cursor over
the video thumbnail [1]; the video preview will play automatically. Audio is not available when previewing a video. To view the
full video with audio, click the video resource title [2]. To listen to a preview of an audio file, click the Play icon [3].

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Preview Media File

In the resource details page, you can preview the full video or audio file before importing it into your course [1]. You can also
view the file type and size [2]. To import or download the file, click the Import/Download button [3].

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How do I import and view a Commons resource in Canvas?

You can import courses, modules, assignments, quizzes, discussions, pages, or files from Commons into your Canvas
course. Imported resources retain their original published or unpublished status.

Notes:

Open Commons

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In Global Navigation, click the Commons link.

Find Resource

Locate a resource by using the search field [1].

You can sort resources by Most Relevant, Latest, Most Favorited, or Most Downloaded [2].

You can also filter search results by approved content, type of content, grade/level, and sharing settings [3]. Learn more about
searching in Commons.

Note: Importing content from Commons only displays course options from the instance where you launched Commons.

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Open Resource

To view resource details, click the resource title.

Note: Resources can be opened in a new tab by pressing Command (Mac) or Control (PC) while clicking the resource name in
the Search page, or, by right clicking the name of the resource.

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View Resource

To import or download the resource, click the Import/Download button.

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Import Resource

Search for the course(s) into which you would like to import the resource [1], or select the course(s) from the list [2]. Then, click
the Import into Course button [3].

To download the file to your computer, click the Download button [4].

Notes:

• Canvas users enrolled in a course as an Instructor, TA, Designer, or a custom role based on one of the previously listed roles
will see the Import into Course list, provided that the course they are enrolled in is current.
• If a course is set to override term dates and the Users can only participate in the course between these dates checkbox is
selected, the course will appear in the course list if the course end date is not in the past.
• If a course uses term dates, the course will appear in the course list if the term start date is not in the future and the end date
is not in the past.

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Import Warning Message

If you are importing a file that exceeds 500MB, Commons will generate a warning message notifying you that the import may
not be successful.

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Resource Pending Message

If you try to import a resource that is still pending, the Import into Course button will be inactive, and Commons will display a
message notifying you the resource is still processing.

View Import Notification

View the import status notification at the top of your screen. Please note that it may take a while to see changes in your course.

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View Imported Resource

To view imported resources other than a course, navigate to the feature area (e.g., Modules, Assignments, Quizzes, Discussions,
Pages, or Files) in Course Navigation.

Note: Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If
you import content that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.

Import Status Notification

If the resource is still being imported, you will see a status notification when you open your course. Click the Import Status link.

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View Import Status

The Current Jobs menu displays the imported resource as a Canvas Common Cartridge .imscc file. You can view the date and
time the resource was imported. The import status menu will show the import status by color:

• Gray [1]: Displays a queued status
• Blue [2]: Displays a running status and progress bar with time remaining
• Green/Orange [3]: Displays a completed status (orange indicates an issue associated with the import; click the issues link to
view the list)

To correct any issue(s) that may have occurred with the import, you can use either the issues link next to the import or you can
use the Course Navigation menu to move around the course and correct the errors.

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How can I leave a review for a resource in Commons?

You can leave a review for a resource in Commons. Reviews are a way for users to evaluate the quality of a resource. A few
things you might consider when evaluating a resource:

• Did you use this resource in your course?
• Do you think it improved student learning?
• Did you rely on this resource for content delivery, evaluation, etc.?

Notes:

Open Commons

In Global Navigation, click the Commons link.

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Find Resource

To locate a resource in Commons, use the search field [1].

To sort content by relevance, date, number of downloads, or number of favorites, click the Sort by drop-down menu [2].

To filter search results by approved content, type of content, grade/level, and sharing settings, click the Filter button [3]. Learn
more about searching in Commons.

Open Resource

To review content, click the resource title.

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Note: Resources can be opened in a new tab by pressing Command (Mac) or Control (PC) while clicking the resource name in
the Search page, or, by right clicking the name of the resource.

View Details Tab

In the resource details page, click the Details tab.

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Submit Review

Write a review in the text field [1]. The maximum character limit for reviews is 1000 characters.

Click the Submit button when you're done [2].

Edit or Delete Your Review

To edit your review, click the Edit link [1]. To delete your review, click the Delete link [2].

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How do I add and manage Favorites in Commons?

In Commons, you can add a resource to Favorites to help you curate helpful content. Favorited content is viewed and
managed in the Favorites page.

Favorite content can be added to Canvas as an assignment, discussion, module item, page, quiz, or content in the Rich
Content Editor.

Notes:

Open Commons

In Global Navigation, click the Commons link.

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Find Resource

Locate a resource by searching or filtering in Commons.

Open Resource

Click the resource title.

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Add to Favorites

Click the Add to Favorites button.

View Favorites

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You can view and manage your favorited content in the Favorites page [1].

To search in Favorites, type keywords and phrases in the search field [2].

To sort content by Most Relevant, Latest, Most Favorited, or Most Downloaded, click the Sort by drop-down menu [3].

To filter search results by approved content, type of content, grade/level, and sharing settings, click the Filter link [4].

To remove an item from Favorites, click the Favorites icon [5].

Remove from Favorites

To remove a resource from Favorites, open the resource, then click the Remove from Favorites button.

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How do I view my imported and shared resources in Commons?

You can easily view all the resources you have imported or shared from Commons in one place.

Notes:

• If you need to remove a resource imported through Commons, navigate to the corresponding area in your course and
delete it there. For example, to remove an imported assignment, navigate to the Assignments Index Page in your course
to delete the assignment from the list.
• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• Commons currently does not support sharing/importing question banks associated with a quiz.
• New Quizzes cannot be imported from Commons.

Open Imported

In Commons Navigation, click the Imported link.

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View Imported Resources

View resources you have imported from Commons into Canvas. Resources are sorted by most recent date.

Open Shared

In Commons Navigation, click the Shared link.

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View Shared Resources

View your shared resources. Resources are sorted by most recent share date.

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Remove Resource

Click the Delete icon to remove the resource from Commons.

Confirm Delete

You will be asked to confirm deletion of the resource. To confirm and delete the resource, click OK [1]. You will be unable to
recover the resource once it is removed from Commons.

To cancel deletion, click Cancel [2].

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Note: If you delete a shared resource in Canvas, other users will still be able to import that resource until you delete the
resource in Commons.

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How do I import Commons Favorites in the Rich Content Editor in Canvas?

You can view and import resources from your Commons Favorites list in the Rich Content Editor in Canvas. Importing
content in the Rich Content Editor only supports documents, videos, audio recordings, and images.

Notes:

• You must add a resource to your favorites in Commons before you can view and import it in the Rich Content Editor.
• Content imported in the Rich Content Editor is also imported into your course files.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared.
If you import content that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.

Open Rich Content Editor

Open the Rich Content Editor when creating or editing an announcement, assignment, discussion, page, quiz, or syllabus.

Note: The Rich Content Editor supports keyboard shortcuts. To view the Keyboard Shortcuts menu, click the Keyboard icon or
press ALT+F8 (PC keyboard) or ALT+FN+F8 (Mac keyboard).

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Open Apps

You can view a list of external tools from the menubar. Click the Tools link [1]. Navigate to the Apps option [2], then select the
View All option [3].

Alternatively, you can view your apps from the toolbar. In the toolbar, click the App icon [4].

Note: To view the App icon, you may have to click the Options icon [5].

View Recently Used Apps

If you have previously used an external app from the Rich Content Editor, you can quickly open recently used apps.

To view recently used apps, click the App icon [1]. Then select the app you want to open [2].

To view all apps, click the View All link [3].

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Open Commons Favorites

Click the Commons Favorites link [1].

You can also filter menu options using the Search field [2].

Note: If the Commons Favorites link does not display, the LTI may not be enabled in your course.

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View Content

A sidebar opens to display all embeddable Commons Favorites resource types. To view additional resources, you may need to
scroll.

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Filter Content

By default, the sidebar displays all embeddable resource types. To filter content by resource type, click the Resource Type drop-
down menu [1] and select a resource type [2].

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Search Content

To search for specific content by title, description, keyword, or tags, use the Search field.

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Import Content

Click the resource you want to embed. The resource will embed in the Rich Content Editor automatically. Importing may take
several minutes to complete.

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View Imported Content

View the imported content in the Rich Content Editor.

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How do I import a favorite assignment from Commons to Canvas as an instructor?

If Commons has been enabled in your Canvas instance, you can add favorited assignments from Commons to a Canvas
course.

Learn how to add and manage favorites in Commons.

Notes:

• You must add assignments to your favorites in Commons before they can be viewed and imported in the Assignments
Index page.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared.
If you import an assignment that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your
course.

Open Assignments

In Course Navigation, click the Assignments link.

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Open Commons Favorites

Click the Options icon [1] and select the Commons Favorites option [2].

Note: If the Commons Favorites option does not display in the Assignments Index page, Commons has not been enabled in your
Canvas instance.

View Commons Favorites

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The Commons Favorites window displays all the assignments that you have favorited in Commons [1]. To search for an
assignment, enter the assignment name in the Search by Title field [2].

Select Assignment Group

To select an assignment group for the imported assignment, click the Assignment Group drop-down menu [1] and select your
desired assignment group [2].

To create a new assignment group for your imported assignment, select the Create new option [3]. The new assignment group
will be named Imported Assignments.

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Import Assignment

To select an assignment for import, click the assignment [1]. Selected assignments display the Checkmark icon [2].

To import the assignment, click the Close icon [3].

View Assignment

The imported assignment displays in the Assignments Index page. To open the assignment, click the assignment name [1].

Imported pages are published by default [2].

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Note: Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If
you import an assignment that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.

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How do I import a favorite discussion from Commons to Canvas as an instructor?

If Commons has been enabled in your Canvas instance, you can add favorited discussions from Commons to a Canvas
course.

Learn how to add and manage favorites in Commons.

Notes:

• You must add discussions to your favorites in Commons before they can be viewed and imported in the Discussions
Index page.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared.
If you import a discussion that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your
course.

Open Discussions

In Course Navigation, click the Discussions link.

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Open Commons Favorites

Click the Options icon [1] and select the Commons Favorites option [2].

Note: If the Options icon does not display in the Discussions Index page, Commons has not been enabled in your Canvas
instance.

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View Commons Favorites

The Commons Favorites window displays all the discussions that you have favorited in Commons [1]. To search for a discussion,
enter the discussion name in the Search by Title field [2].

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Import Discussion

To select a discussion for import, click the discussion [1]. Selected discussions display the Checkmark icon [2].

To import the discussion, click the Close icon [3].

View Discussion

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The imported discussion displays in the Pinned Discussions section in the Discussions Index page [1]. To open the discussion,
click the discussion name [2].

Imported discussions are published by default [3].

Note: Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If
you import a discussion that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.

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How do I import a favorite page from Commons to Canvas as an instructor?

If Commons has been enabled in your Canvas instance, you can add favorited pages from Commons to a Canvas course.

Learn how to add and manage favorites in Commons.

Notes:

• You must add pages to your favorites in Commons before they can be viewed and imported in the Pages Index page.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared.
If you import a page that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.

Open Pages

In Course Navigation, click the Pages link.

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Open Commons Favorites

Click the Options icon [1] and select the Commons Favorites option [2].

Note: If the Options icon does not display in the Pages Index page, Commons has not been enabled in your Canvas instance.

View Commons Favorites

The Commons Favorites window displays all the pages that you have favorited in Commons [1]. To search for a page, enter the
page name in the Search by Title field [2].

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Import Page

To select a page for import, click the page [1]. Selected pages display the Checkmark icon [2].

To import the page, click the Close icon [3].

View Page

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The imported page displays in the Pages Index page. To open the page, click the page name [1].

Imported pages are unpublished by default [2].

Note: Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If
you import a page that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.

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How do I import a favorite quiz from Commons to Canvas as an instructor?

If Commons has been enabled in your Canvas instance, you can add favorited quizzes from Commons to a Canvas course.

Learn how to add and manage favorites in Commons.

Notes:

• You must add quizzes to your favorites in Commons before they can be viewed and imported in the Quizzes Index page.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared.
If you import a quiz that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.
• Commons currently does not support sharing/importing question banks associated with a quiz.
• New Quizzes cannot be imported from commons.

Open Quizzes

In Course Navigation, click the Quizzes link.

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Open Commons Favorites

Click the Options icon [1] and select the Commons Favorites option [2].

Note: If the Options icon does not display in the Quizzes Index page, Commons has not been enabled in your Canvas instance.

View Commons Favorites

The Commons Favorites window displays all the quizzes that you have favorited in Commons [1]. To search for a quiz, enter the
quiz name in the Search by Title field [2].

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Import Quiz

To select a quiz for import, click the quiz [1]. Selected quizzes display the Checkmark icon [2].

To import the quiz, click the Close icon [3].

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View Quiz

The imported quiz displays in the Quizzes Index page. To open the quiz, click the quiz name [1].

Imported quizzes are published by default [2].

Note: Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If
you import a quiz that was published when it was originally shared, it will import and be published in your course.

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How do I import a Commons favorite as a module item in Canvas as an instructor?

If Commons has been enabled in your Canvas instance, you can add favorited content as a module item in a Canvas course.
You can import favorited assignments, discussions, modules, pages, quizzes, audio, documents, images, or videos.

Learn how to add and manage favorites in Commons.

Notes:

• You must add resources to your favorites in Commons before they can be viewed and imported in the Modules.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared.
If you import a resource that was published when it was originally shared, it will import published in your course.

Open Modules

In Course Navigation, click the Modules link.

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Open Commons Favorites

Click the Options icon [1] and select the Commons Favorites option [2].

Note: If the Options icon does not display in the Modules page, Commons has not been enabled in your Canvas instance.

View Commons Favorites

The Commons Favorites window displays all the items that you have favorited in Commons [1].

To search for a favorited item, enter the item name in the Search by Title field [2].

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Filter Commons Favorites

To filter what displays in the Commons Favorites, click the Type drop-down menu [1]. Then select the content type you want to
view [2]. Type options include assignments, audio, discussions, documents, images, modules, pages, quizzes, and videos.

Select Module

To select a module for the imported item, click the Module drop-down menu [1] and select your desired module [2].

To create a module for your imported assignment, select the Create new option [3]. The new module will be named Imported
Module.

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Import Module Item

To select an item for import, click the item [1]. Selected items display the Checkmark icon [2].

To import the assignment, click the Close icon [3].

View Module Item

The imported item displays in the specified module [1]. To open the assignment, click the assignment name [2].

Imported module items are published by default [3].

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Note: Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If
you import a resource that was published when it was originally shared, it will import published in your course.

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How do I view updates to resources I previously imported from Commons?

When a modified resource is re-shared to Commons, users who have imported a copy of that resource in Commons prior
to the update will have the option to update the resource. When an update is available, it will appear in the updates page,
in the notifications center, and in the resource detail page.

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• If your current version of a resource has student submissions, you may consider not updating the resource.
• If you choose to update a previously shared resource, the previous version will be replaced. If you choose not to update
a previously shared resource, a new resource will be created.

Open Commons

To view and update resources, click the Commons link.

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Open Updates

In Commons navigation, click the Updates link [1]. You can also click the View Update Notes button in the notifications center
[2].

To dismiss the notifications center, click the close icon [3]. The notifications center will reappear only when there is a new
update.

Note: The notifications center will display up to three updates; however, you can view all available updates in the Updates page.

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View Available Updates

In the Updates page, you can view all your previously imported resources that have been updated by the original user. You can
view the name and type of resource [1], date and time the resource was last updated [2], and notes of what was updated in this
version [3].

You can also view which course(s) you previously imported the resource into [4] and which version of the resource you are
currently using [5].

To view the resource details page or view the full version history, click the name of the resource.

Note: Resources removed or deleted from Canvas cannot be updated.

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View Resource Details Page

On the resource details page, you can also view update notifications. To view updates, click the Show Courses button [1].

To view the version history, click the Version notes tab [2].

To return to the updates page, click the Back to Updates button [3].

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Select Courses

If you imported the resource into more than one course, you have the option to select which course(s) you want to update. All
courses will be selected by default. To select or deselect a course for update, click the checkbox next to the course name.

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Update Resource

To update your resource, click the Update or Update selected button [1]. Updating your resource will replace your current
resource. To confirm, click the Yes button [2].

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Dismiss Update

You can also choose to ignore the update if you do not want to update your copy of the resource. To ignore the update for the
selected course(s), click the Dismiss or Dismiss selected button [1]. Prior to dismissal, you will need to confirm you wish to
ignore the update. To confirm, click the Yes button [2].

Note: If you ignore the update for the selected course(s), you will still be notified of future updates to the resource.

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View Updated Resource in Canvas

To view your imported resources, navigate to the feature area (e.g., Modules, Assignments, Quizzes, Discussions, Pages, or Files)
in Canvas.

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What information do I need to share a resource to Commons?

When sharing a resource to Commons, you will need to add details about the resource, select a content license, and
choose a sharing option.

Notes:

Sharing and License

Commons resources require sharing and license options. You can select from the following options:

1. If the resource you are sharing will update an existing resource, click the toggle and select the resource. Learn more about
updating resources.
2. Choose who you want to share the resource with. Learn more about sharing options.
3. Select a content license. Learn what types of content licenses are available.

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4. Add any additional information about the resource.

Notes:

• Depending on the account settings set by your Canvas admin, you may be unable to view and/or share public content.
Authors of publicly shared resources will always be able to view their resource.
• When updating resources, resources that are no longer in a user's scope will not appear in the user's Updates page. For
example, changing the share option from your account to within specific groups.
• The license you select for your resource in Commons is not tied to the license that is set for the resource within Canvas
course settings.
• Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required.

Metadata

Add Metadata for your resource under the following headings:

1. Title: Edit the title of your resource if necessary. This will be pre-populated based on the resource name.
2. Description: Enter a description for your resource. If you plan to share your resource with other users, be as descriptive as
possible.
3. Tags: Enter tags to make it easy for other users to find your resource (at least one tag is required). For example, you can add
Common Core State Standard tags.
4. Image: Upload an image from your computer. Images are not available for image or video resources.

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Note: Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required.

Grades

Select the appropriate grade level(s) using the sliders or the dropdown menus.

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How do I add a thumbnail image to my shared resource?

When sharing a resource to Commons, you can upload an image from your computer. A thumbnail image is a visual
representation of your resource and is used in the Commons resource repository. The minimum size of your thumbnail
must be at least 147 pixels high and 262 pixels wide.

Notes:

Create Information

In the share page, enter resource details.

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Select Image

To select an image, click the Click to change button.

Note: The option to select an image is not available for image or video file types.

Upload Image

To upload an image from your computer, click the browse link [1] or drag and drop [2] your file directly into the image drop zone.

Notes:

• Thumbnail images must be a .jpg, .png, or .gif file.
• The minimum size of your thumbnail must be at least 147 pixels high and 262 pixels wide.

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Open File

Locate and click the name of the file you want to upload. Then click the Open button.

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Crop Image

To select and crop your image, drag the selection box [1]. When you're done, click the Save button [2]. You will be able to
preview the image before sharing your resource.

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Preview Image

Preview your image. If you are not satisfied, click the Click to change button to upload a new image.

Note: User images are not saved in the image library for reuse.

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Share to Commons

When you're done, click the Share button.

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What types of content licenses are available in Commons?

A Creative Commons license allows you to share, on your own terms, the course content you create. You determine how
and to what extent other users can reuse your original course content. Likewise, you can reuse other users' content if it has
a Creative Commons license. The benefit of using Creative Commons licenses is that other instructors can use, build, and
improve upon your own content. This type of creative collaboration can add value to your curriculum.

When sharing a resource to commons, you will need to select a content license option.

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• The license you select for your resource in Commons is not tied to the license that is set for the resource within Canvas
course settings.
• For more information about copyright infringement, please read the Canvas Commons Terms of Use.
• Learn more about setting the content license.

Copyrighted

Copyrighted means original content created by you. If you select this option, you can add additional information.

Public Domain

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Public Domain means the work has no known copyright and is free to use without restrictions. To learn more, click the Public
Domain image.

Attribution

All Creative Commons licenses require Attribution. In other words, when others distribute or reuse your work, they must
always credit you for your original creation. If you select Attribution as your only Creative Commons license, others can copy,
distribute, and use your course content or altered forms of your course content. To learn more, click the CC - Attribution image.

Attribution ShareAlike

If you add a ShareAlike license to your course content, others are allowed to copy, distribute, and use your course content only
if they redistribute your content using the same Creative Commons license. To learn more, click the CC - Attribution ShareAlike
image.

Note: The Attribution-ShareAlike license is used by Wikipedia, and is recommended for materials that would benefit from
incorporating content from Wikipedia and similarly licensed projects. With this license, others can copy, distribute, and use your
course content or altered forms of your course content (even for commercial purposes) as long as they credit you and use the
same Creative Commons license.

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Attribution No Derivatives

A No Derivatives license indicates that others can use your course content, but they may not change it in any way. To learn
more, click the CC - Attribution NoDerivs image.

Attribution NonCommercial

A Non-Commercial license adds the caveat that others can use your course content, but not for commercial purposes. To learn
more, click the CC - Attribution NonCommercial image.

Choose a Content License

To share your resource in the way that works best for you, select a license from the Copyright and Licenses drop-down menu.
The list below shows the available copyright and license combinations, from least restrictive to most restrictive:

• Copyrighted

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• Public Domain
• CC - Attribution
• CC - Attribution ShareAlike
• CC - Attribution NoDerivs
• CC - Attribution NonCommercial
• CC - Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike
• CC - Attribution NonCommercial NoDerivs

You can view more information about Creative Commons licenses and how they work at creativecommons.org/licenses.

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What types of sharing options are available in Commons?

When sharing a resource to Commons, you will need to choose who you want to share your resource with. There are five
sharing options available: share to your entire account, share within groups, share within consortiums, share with the
public (all Canvas Commons users), or you can set a resource only visible to yourself (private). Select one or more options
(maximum of 10) for sharing your resource(s).

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• Standard Canvas file storage limits apply, however, anything shared publicly will not count against your quota.
• Depending on the account settings set by your Canvas admin, you may be unable to view and/or share public content.
Authors of publicly shared resources will always be able to view their resource.
• When updating resources, resources that are no longer in a user's scope will not appear on the user's Updates page.
For example, changing the share option from your account to within specific groups.
• Resources shared through Commons retain the published/unpublished status of the items when they were originally
shared. If you share a published resource, when others import that resource, it will be published in their courses.

Share to Account

To share the resource with your entire account, select the All of [account] checkbox. If you share to your entire account, the
resource will be shared to all groups within the account (including groups you may not belong to).

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Share within Groups

To share the resource within groups, select the Select Group(s) checkbox. This includes the ability to share with all or select
groups.

Note: Group visibility is based on your group membership(s).

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Share within Consortiums

To share the resource only within consortiums, select the Select Consortium(s) checkbox. This includes the ability to share with
all or select consortiums.

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Share with Public (All Canvas Users)

To share the resource with all Canvas users, select the Public checkbox. The shared resource will be publicly available to anyone
using Canvas.

Share Privately

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To share the resource with just yourself, select the Only Me checkbox.

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What types of document and media files can be shared to Commons?

Learn about what types of document and media files can be shared to Commons.

Notes:

Supported Document Types
The following document files can be shared to Commons:

• .doc
• .docx
• .ppt
• .pptx
• .pdf
• .xls
• .xlsx
• .rtf
• .txt
• .odt
• .odp
• .ods

Supported Image Types
The following image files can be shared to Commons:

• .jpg
• .png
• .gif
• .svg

Supported Video Types
The following video files can be shared to Commons:

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• .asf – Windows Media
• .mov – Apple Quicktime
• .mpg – Digital Video Format
• .avi – Digital Video Format
• .m4v – Digital Video Format
• .wmv – Windows Media
• .mp4 - Digital Video Format
• .3gp – Multimedia Mobile Format
• .flv – Flash Video

Supported Audio Types
The following audio files can be shared to Commons:

• .mp3
• .wav
• .mp4
• .aac
• .aif
• .ogg
• .webm

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How do I share a course to Commons?

You can share your Canvas course to Commons and make it available to other instructors. Resources should be complete
before they are shared.

To share a single resource to Commons, learn how to share a resource to Commons.

To modify an existing shared resource, learn how to update a resource previously shared to Commons.

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• Updating a previously shared course in Commons can replace constituent resources within the dependent course,
resetting or replacing important settings, course design, and even resources like assignments. Please use caution when
updating courses via Commons.
• Depending on the account settings set by your Canvas admin, you may be unable to view and/or share public content.
Authors of publicly shared resources will always be able to view their resource.
• The file size limit for uploaded content is 500 MB.
• A course shared through Commons retains its published/unpublished status from when it was originally shared. If you
share a published course, when others import that course, it will be published in their account.

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Open Course

In Global Navigation, click the Courses link [1], then click the name of the course you want to share to Commons [2].

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Open Settings

In Course Navigation, click the Settings link.

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Share to Commons

In the sidebar, click the Share to Commons link.

Note: A course shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of when it was originally shared. If you
share a published course, when others import that course, it will be published.

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Choose Sharing Option

Select a sharing option.

Choose Content License

Select your content license from the Copyright and Licenses drop-down menu [1]. To add any additional licensing, copyright, or
usage information, click the Add Additional Information link [2].

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Add Metadata

Enter resource metadata and add an image thumbnail.

Add Grade/Level

Select the appropriate grade level(s) using the sliders or drop-down menus.

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Share to Commons

When you're done, click the Share button.

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View Shared Resource

View your shared resource. It may take up to 30 minutes to process a resource. Resource previews are not available while the
resource is processing.

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How do I share a resource to Commons?

You can share assignments, modules, quizzes, pages, and discussions in Canvas to Commons.

To share all content in a course to Commons, learn how to share a course to Commons.

To modify an existing shared resource, learn how to update a resource previously shared to Commons.

Notes:

• The steps in this lesson are similar for sharing assignments, modules, quizzes, pages, or discussions. The differences
include opening the feature from Course Navigation and using the Settings icon on Index and Details pages. The images
in this lesson illustrate how to share an assignment to Commons.
• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• The file size limit for uploaded content is 500 MB.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared.
If you share a published resource, when others import that resource, it will be published in their course.
• Studio content cannot be shared to or imported from Commons.

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Open Course

In Global Navigation, click the Courses link [1], then click the name of the course you want to share the resource from [2].

Open Feature Area

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In Course Navigation, click the feature area link where your resource is located.

Share Resource

Locate the resource you'd like to share within the feature area page, click the Options icon [1], then click the Share to Commons
link [2].

Notes:

• If there is a rubric attached to a resource, it will be shared to Commons as part of the resource. The attached rubric will also
be imported as part of the resource.
• Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If you
share a published resource, when others import that resource, it will be published in their course.

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Share via Resource Details Page

You can also open the individual resource to share to Commons. Click the Options icon [1] then click the Share to Commons link
[2].

Choose Sharing Option

Select a sharing option.

Note: Depending on the account settings set by your Canvas admin, you may be unable to view and/or share public content.
Authors of publicly shared resources will always be able to view their resource.

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Choose Content License

Select your content license from the Copyright and Licenses drop-down menu [1]. To add any additional licensing, copyright, or
usage information, click the Add Additional Information link [2].

Add Metadata

Enter resource metadata and add a thumbnail image.

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Add Grade/Level

Select the appropriate grade level(s) using the sliders or the dropdown menus.

Share to Commons

When you're done, click the Share button.

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View Shared Resource

View your shared resource. It may take up to 30 minutes to process a resource. Resource previews are not available while the
resource is processing.

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How do I share a document, image, video, or audio file to Commons?

Learn how to share files in Canvas to Commons. Learn more about supported file types in Commons.

Resources should be complete before they are shared. To modify an existing shared resource, learn how to update a
resource previously shared to Commons.

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• The file size limit for uploaded content is 500 MB.
• Resources shared through Commons retain the published/unpublished status of the items when they were originally
shared. If you share a published resource, when others import that resource, it will be published in their courses.

Open Course

In Global Navigation, click the Courses link [1], then click the name of the course you want to share the file from [2].

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Open Files

In Course Navigation, click the Files link.

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Share File

To share a document [1], audio [2], image [3], or video [4] file, click the Options icon [5] then click the Share to Commons link [6].

Note: Content shared through Commons retains the published/unpublished status of the item when it was originally shared. If
you share a published resource, when others import that resource, it will be published in their course.

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Choose Sharing Option

Select a sharing sharing option.

Choose Content License

From the Copyright and Licenses drop-down menu, select your content license.

To add additional information about licensing or usage, click the Add Additional Information link.

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Add Metadata

Enter resource metadata and add a thumbnail image.

Note: For image and video file types, a thumbnail is created automatically. Thus, the option to select a thumbnail is not available.

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Add Grade/Level

Select the appropriate grade level(s) using the sliders or dropdown menus.

Share to Commons

When you're done, click the Share button.

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View Shared Resource

View your shared resource. It may take up to 30 minutes to process a resource. Resource previews are not available while the
resource is processing.

Notes:

• The file type will automatically display in the resource details.
• Duration will display for video and audio file types.

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How do I update a resource I previously shared to Commons?

If you modify a resource (learning activity) in Canvas that was previously shared to Commons, you can share the modified
resource to Commons again to update the existing resource in Commons. Only the user who originally shared a resource
to Commons can update resource content. However, administrators can edit resource details.

Notes:

• To enable Commons in your Canvas instance, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
• Commons is available in all Free for Teacher (FFT) accounts. Free for Teacher users are limited to finding, importing,
and sharing public resources.
• If you choose to update a previously shared resource, the previous version will be replaced. If you choose not to update
a previously shared resource, a new resource will be created.

Open Course

In Global Navigation, click the Courses link [1], then click the name of the course [2].

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Open Feature Area

In Course Navigation, click the feature area link where the resource exists that you want to update.

If you modified a course and want to share it to Commons as an update, navigate to course Settings.

Note: When updating a file, if you change the file name, Commons might not be able to match it with your existing resource.

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Share to Commons

Locate the resource [1] and click the Options icon [2]. Then, click the Share to Commons link [3].

Select Update Option

Commons will automatically check whether or not the resource can be updated and create a default option. To manually choose
whether or not the currently shared resource is an update to a previously shared resource, click the update toggle.

Notes:

• If you choose not to update the previously shared resource, a new resource will be created.
• Resources not previously shared to Commons will not have an update option.

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Change Resource

Commons will verify the best match for which resource you are updating. To change which resource you are updating, click the
Change button.

Select Resource

A list of previously shared resources is pre-populated for you. To update a resource, click the radio button next to the desired
resource.

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Add Version Notes

In the Version notes field, let users know what you updated. Version notes will be visible to users on the resource details page.

Edit Resource Details

If necessary, edit resource information, content licensing, and sharing options.

Note: Resources that are no longer in a user's scope will not appear on the user's Updates page. For example, changing the
share option from your account to within specific groups.

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Update Resource

When you are ready, click the Update button.

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View Updated Resource

View your updated resource. It may take up to 30 minutes to process a resource. Resource previews are not available while the
resource is processing.

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How do I edit the details of a resource in Commons?

Authors can edit the license, version notes, title, description, tags, image, and sharing settings for their shared resources
from Commons. To modify an existing shared resource, learn how to update a resource previously shared to Commons.
Admins can also edit and remove shared account resources that are not private to the author.

Notes:

Open Commons

In Global Navigation, click the Commons link.

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Find Resource

In the search field [1], find the resource you want to edit or delete. To view all your shared resources, click the Shared link [2].

Open Resource

Click the name of the resource you want to edit or delete.

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Edit Resource

Click the Edit Resource link.

Edit Resource Details

Edit the resource information, content licensing, and sharing options.

Note: The Version notes field is only available for previously shared resources that have been updated.

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Approve Content

If you have been added as an approved content curator by a Commons admin, you can mark content as approved in your
Commons account. You can edit resources uploaded by any user in your Commons account to mark the resource as approved
content. You can also approve resources from the Commons search page, the Managed Resources tab on the Admin page, or
when uploading a new resource.

To mark a resource as approved content, enable the Institution Approved Content option.

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Select Content Type

You can label your resource as a template or open textbook content type. Content types help users more easily locate resources
when filtering search results.

To select the template content type, click the Template checkbox [1]. To select the open textbook content type, click the Open
Textbook checkbox [2]. Both content types can be selected for the same resource.

Save Changes

When you're done, click the Save Changes button.

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View Updated Resource

View updated resource details.

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How do I manage Groups in Commons?

Group managers can change the group's name, add or remove group members, make other members group managers, and
edit or delete resources shared to the group.

A Group Manager is a role that must be assigned by an Admin. Learn more about how to add a Group Manager as an
Admin.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Groups

Click the Groups tab.

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View Groups

Find a specific group by typing in the Search groups field [1].

To manage the group, click the group name [2].

Edit Group

In the Groups page, to edit a group, click the group's name.

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Edit Group Details

In the Edit Group page, you can change the group name [1] and add users to the group [2].

To return to the Groups page, click the Back to All Groups link [3].

Add Group Members

Click the Search users to add field [1]. Type the name or email address of the user and select the user from the search list [2].

Note: If you can’t find the user you'd like to add to the group, make sure they have accessed Commons in the past.

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Manage Group Members

Users appear in the Group Member list [1]. Commons displays the user's name [2] and email [3].

To change the manager status of a user, click the toggle button [4]. To remove a user from the group, click the Delete icon [5].

Delete Group

To delete a group, click the Delete icon.

Note: Only administrators can delete groups.

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How do I manage approved content in Commons?

If your Commons Admin has added you as an approved content curator, you can mark resources as institution-approved
content. You can only approve content uploaded by a user from your institution.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Managed Resources

To view all resources managed by your institution, click the Managed Resources tab.

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Open Resource

To open the resource details page, click the resource title.

Edit Resource

Click the Edit Resource link.

Note: If the Edit Resource link does not display, the resource may not be managed by your institution.

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Share as Approved Content

To share a resource as approved content, enable the Share as Account approved content option.

To remove the resource from approved content, disable the Share as Account approved content option.

Save Resource

Click the Save Changes button.

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View Approved Content

Approved resources display the approved content icon and background color as a banner on the content card in search results.

You can also view the approved content icon and message on the resource details page.

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Admin

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How do I view account settings in Commons?

As a Canvas account admin, you can access account settings in Commons to manage public sharing and importing options
for your account, view and manage groups and consortiums, manage resources shared by users at your institution, and
view resource statistics.

Notes:

• Users with the default Canvas account admin user role automatically have account admin access in Commons.
• Your institution can create custom Canvas account admin roles with the "Admins - add/remove" permission. These
admin users also have account admin access in Commons.
• Users with non-admin roles (instructors, designers, etc.) do not have access to Admin Settings. However, you can grant
limited Admin Settings access to group leaders or content curators.

Open Admin Settings

To access Commons Account Settings, click the Admin link.

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View Account Settings

In the Account Settings tab, you can allow approved content settings, manage sharing settings, allow featured content, and
configure default search filters.

You can also enable or disable standards and outcomes. By default, Standards & Outcomes settings are enabled.

You can edit your account settings at any time.

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View Groups

In the Groups tab, you can create and manage groups with which you share resources.

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View Consortiums

In the Consortiums tab, you can create and manage consortiums with which you share resources.

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View Managed Resources

In the Managed Resources tab, you can search, view, and remove resources shared by your institution that are not private to
the author/sharer. You can also edit resource metadata (details, content licensing, share option); however, you cannot edit or
update resource content.

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View Statistics

In the Stats tab, you can view resource statistics for content shared by users at your institution. You can search for and filter
resources. You can also view resource name, author, email address, approved content status, number of times favorited, number
of times downloaded, and a link to the Canvas source file.

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How do I edit my account settings in Commons?

As an admin, you can manage account settings. Settings are saved automatically as you make changes.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Account Settings

Click the Account Settings tab.

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Edit Approved Content

You can allow approved content for your Commons account. Approved content is indicated in search results by a customizable
banner and image.

To allow approved content, enable the Allow Approved Content option [1].

To select a custom background color, click the Select background color button [2].

To upload a custom image, click the Select image link [3]. To reset the custom image back to the default (a white checkmark
icon), click the Reset to default link [4].

To prioritize approved content in search results, click the Prioritize approved content in search results checkbox [5].

You can allow other users to manage approved content. Type the name of a user in the field and press Enter (PC) or Return
(Mac) to give them permission to curate approved content [6].

Note: Custom images must be 50x50 pixels in size and the file format must be either JPEG, PNG, or SVG.

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Edit Public Content

By default, users will be able to share and view public content.

To disable public sharing, disable the Allow users to share to public account option [1]. This will remove the Public option when
finding a resource in Commons and the Share with public (All Canvas users) option when sharing a resource to Commons.

To prevent users in your account from viewing or importing publicly shared content, disable the Allow users to view publicly
shared content option [2]. This option will hide all publicly shared resources from your Commons account. Users will also not be
able to import any publicly shared resources. However, disabling this option does not affect publicly available featured content.

Notes:

• Authors of publicly shared resources will always be able to view their resource.
• If the Allow users to view publicly shared content option is disabled, admins will not be able to view public resources and
discovering users will not be able to view updates to previously imported public resources.

Edit Featured Content

Featured content is enabled by default. When this option is enabled, featured content displays to users at the top of the
Commons search page.

To disable featured content from displaying at the top of the Commons search page, disable the Allow featured content option.
Featured content curated by the Commons team will still display in search results even if this option is disabled.

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Edit Default Search Filters

You can configure default search filters in Commons. Default search filters are automatically applied to all search results in
Commons. However, users can modify filters for individual searches.

To turn on default search filters, enable the Configure default search filters option [1].

To only display approved content in search results, enable the Only Account Approved Resources option [2].

To filter content based on grade/level, click the checkbox next to the desired grade/level [3].

To filter content based on sharing and publicity settings, select an option from the list [4].

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Edit Standards & Outcomes

By default, Standards & Outcomes settings are enabled.

To disable users from tagging federal or state standards to shared resources in Commons, click the Show Common Core
Standards [1] or Show State Standards [2] button to turn off the option.

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How do I edit the details of a resource in Commons as an admin?

Admins can edit and remove resources shared by users in their account. Admins cannot edit or remove resources that are
shared privately. Admins can only modify resource details and cannot modify resource content. Admins and approved
content curators can also share resources as featured content. Admins can share a resource as approved content.

Notes:

Open Commons

In Global Navigation, click the Commons link.

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Find Resource

To view all resources you can manage in your account, click the Admin link in Commons navigation [1], then click the Managed
Resources tab [2].

Open Resource

Click the name of the resource you want to edit or delete.

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Edit Resource

Click the Edit Resource link.

Edit Resource Details

You can update the sharing and license settings [1], metadata [2], and the grade level [3].

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Approve Content

To mark a resource as approved content, enable the Institution Approved Content option.

Only account admins and approved content curators can share resources as institution-approved content.

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Feature Content

To feature a resource in your Commons account, enable the Featured Content option. Featured content displays at the top of
search results on the Commons search page.

Only admins can share resources as featured content.

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Select Content Type

You can label your resource as a template or open textbook content type. Content types help users more easily locate resources
when filtering search results.

Save Changes

When you're done, click the Save Changes button.

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View Updated Resource

View updated resource details.

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How do I allow and manage approved content in Commons?

As an admin in Commons, you can allow approved content, mark resources in Commons as approved content, and allow
other users to approve content in Commons. You can also customize search results for users so they only see approved
content in search results. Approved content is indicated with a banner and custom logo that displays in Commons search
results.

Approved content allows admins to easily distinguish institution-approved content from other user-submitted content in
Commons and provide higher quality resources in search results through a content approval process.

Note: You can only approve content that you or someone at your institution has uploaded to Commons. To approve public
content, you must first download the content from Commons and then re-upload it for use at your institution.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Account Settings

Click the Account Settings tab.

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Allow Approved Content

To enable approved content, enable the Allow Approved Content option.

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Customize Approved Content

To customize the background color that displays behind the approved content icon, click the Select background color button
[1].

To upload a custom image, click the Change image link [2]. To reset the custom image back to the default (a white checkmark
icon), click the Reset to default link [3].

To prioritize approved content in search results, click the Prioritize approved content in search results checkbox [4]. When this
option is selected, approved content always appears first in search results.

You can allow other users to manage approved content. Type the name of a user in the Add users to manage approved content
field and press Enter (PC) or Return (Mac) to give them permission to curate approved content [5].

Note: Custom images must be 50x50 pixels in size and the file format must be either JPEG, PNG, or SVG.

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Add Users to Manage Approved Content

Commons admins can give users the ability to manage approved content for the account. Added users can mark resources as
approved content, including resources they upload to Commons.

To give a user the ability to manage approved content, type their name or email address in the Add users to manage approved
content field [1]. As you begin typing, you will see suggested users in a list. Select the user by clicking their name or press the
Return (Mac) or Enter (PC) key on your keyboard when their name is highlighted in the list [2].

To remove a user from the list, click the Remove icon next to their name [3].

Customize Search Results

You can configure default search filters to only display approved resources in the Commons search page.

To enable default search filters, enable the Configure default search filters option [1].

To only display approved resources in search results, enable the Only Account Approved Resources option [2].

Manage Resources

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You can approve content from the resource details page. To view all resources you manage, click the Managed Resources tab.

Open Resource

To open the resource details page, click the resource title.

Edit Resource

Click the Edit Resource link.

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Approve Content

To share a resource as approved content, enable the Institution Approved Content button.

To remove the resource from approved content, disable the Institution Approved Content button.

Save Resource

Click the Save Changes button.

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View Approved Content

Approved resources display the approved content icon and background color as a banner on the content card in search results
[1].

You can also view the approved content icon and message on the resource details page [2].

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How do I manage shared resources for my account in Commons?

As an admin, you can search, view, edit, and remove your account's shared resources.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Managed Resources

Click the Managed Resources tab.

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View Account Shared Resources

The Managed Resources page allows you to search for, view, and edit or remove resources shared by your institution that are
not private to the author.

In the search field, you can search your account's shared resources by entering keywords such as author or title [1]. You can also
sort by Most Relevant, Latest, Most Favorited, or Most Downloaded [2].

To view and apply search filters, click the Filter button [3].

Apply Search Filters

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You can filter search results when managing resources. Search filters have several options, including filtering by approved
content [1], resource type [2], content type [3], grade/level [4], and sharing settings [5].

Remove Resource

To remove a resource from Commons, click the Delete icon.

You will be asked to confirm deletion of the resource. To confirm and delete the resource, click Delete [1]. You will be unable to
recover the resource once it is removed from Commons. The author will no longer see the removed resource on their Shared
page.

To cancel deletion, click Cancel [2].

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Note: If you delete a shared resource in Canvas, other users will still be able to import that resource until you delete the
resource in Commons.

View Resource

To view more details about a resource, click the resource tile.

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Edit Resource Details

To edit resource details, click the Edit Resource button.

Note: Admins cannot edit or update resource content.

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Remove from Commons

You can also remove a resource from the resource details page. To remove the resource, click the Remove from Commons
button.

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How do I manage Consortiums in Commons?

As an admin, you can manage (create, edit, and delete) consortiums for your account. A consortium is a collective of several
institutions, which is different than a Commons group.

You can also accept or decline invitations to consortiums and leave consortiums you have joined.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Consortiums

Click the Consortiums tab.

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Create Consortium

Type the name of the new consortium in the new consortium field. Then press the Return (Mac) or Enter (PC) key.

Edit Consortium Details

In the Edit Consortium page, you can change the consortium name [1], choose whether to allow your institution to contribute to
the consortium [2], and invite other institutions [3]. To return to the Consortiums page, click the Back to All Consortiums link
[4].

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Invite Institutions

In the institution field [1], type the name or URL of the institution. Then select the institution from the search list [2].

Manage Institutions

Invited institutions will appear in the Contributor and Institution list [1] and will be marked as Pending [2] until the institution
accepts the invitation to join the consortium. If the institution declines the invitation, the status will be Declined and can be
dismissed.

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To change the Contributor status of the institution, click the toggle [3]. To remove an institution from the consortium, click the
Delete icon [4].

Edit Consortium

To edit a consortium, click the consortium's name on the Consortiums page.

Delete Consortium

To delete a consortium, click the Delete icon.

Accept or Decline Invitation

To accept an invitation, click the Join button [1]. To reject an invitation, click the Decline button [2].

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Leave Consortium

To leave a joined consortium, click the Leave link.

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How do I create and manage Groups in Commons?

As an admin, you can manage (create, edit, and delete) groups for your account. A group is a subset within an institution,
which is different than a consortium.

As part of managing groups, you can add group managers. Group managers can change the group's name, add or remove
group members, make other members group managers, and edit or delete resources shared to the group.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Groups

Click the Groups tab.

Create Group

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Type the name of the new group in the Create a new group field. Then press the Return (Mac) or Enter (PC) key.

Edit Group Details

In the Edit Group page, you can change the group name [1] and add users to the group [2]. To return to the Groups page, click
the Back to All Groups link [3].

Add Group Members

In the Search users to add field [1], type the name or email address of the user and select the user from the search list [2].

Note: if you can’t find the user you'd like to add to the group, make sure they have accessed Commons in the past.

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Manage Group Members

Users appear in the Group Member list [1] with the users' name [2] and email [3].

To change the manager status of a user, enable the Manager toggle [4].

To remove a user from the group, click the Delete icon [5].

Edit Group

In the Groups page, to edit a group, click the group's name.

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Delete Group

To delete a group, click the Delete icon.

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How do I view resource statistics in Commons?

You can view resource statistics for content shared to Commons by users at your institution. Resource statistics include a
link to the resource in Commons, resource author, author email address, approved content status, number of times the
resource was favorited, number of times the resource was downloaded, and a link to the source file in Canvas.

Open Admin Settings

In Commons Navigation, click the Admin link.

Open Stats

Clicked the Stats tab.

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View Statistics

The Statistics page displays statistics for all Commons resources shared by users at your institution. Statistics include the name
of the resource [1], the author [2], the author's email address [3], the approved content status [4], the number of times a
resource has been favorited [5], the number of times a resource has been downloaded [6], and a link to the source file in Canvas
[7].

View Resource Details

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To view resource details in Commons, click the resource name [1].

To view the author's profile page in Canvas, click the author's name [2].

To send the author an email, click the author's email address [3].

To view the Canvas source file for the Commons resource, click the Hyperlink icon [4].

Commons resources that were privately shared to Commons do not include a link to view the resource details [5].

Search Resources

To search for resources by keyword, title, name, institution, or tag, type in the Search field [1]. Search results load as you type.
Commons displays the number of search results [2].

Sort Statistics

To sort resources, click the Sort by drop-down menu. You can sort by most relevant, latest, number of times favorited, number
of times downloaded, and approved content status.

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Sort with Column Headers

You can also sort by clicking column headers. To sort resources by a column heading, click the heading name. Commons will sort
the resources in descending order. To sort in ascending order, click the same column header again. You can sort column headers
by resource name [1], approved content status [2], number of times favorited [3], or number of times downloaded [4].

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Filter Statistics

You can also filter resources on the Statistics page. To filter resources, click the Filter button. You can filter resources by
approved status [1], resource type [2], content type [3], grade level [4], or sharing settings [5].

Download Statistics

To download a copy of resource statistics as a CSV file, click the Download CSV button.

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How do I remove Canvas Commons from my institution's Canvas account as an admin?

As a Canvas admin, you can remove the Canvas Commons app from your account if needed. Removing Canvas Commons
from your institution's Canvas account removes Commons from all app placements in the account.

Alternatively, if you don't want to remove Canvas Commons from your account, you can manage Commons app
placements for the account. App placements determine where an app can be seen and used in Canvas.

Open Account

In Canvas, click the Admin link [1], then click the name of the account [2].

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Open Settings

In Account Navigation, click the Settings link.

Open Apps

Click the Apps tab.

View App Configurations

To view apps in your account, click the View App Configurations button.

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Delete Commons App

In the list of apps, locate Canvas Commons [1]. Click the Settings button [2] and select the Delete option [3].

Confirm Delete

Click the Delete button.

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