How do I use Discussions?

Using Discussions

Canvas provides an integrated system for class discussions, allowing both instructors and students to start and contribute to as many discussion topics as desired. Discussions can also be created as an assignment for grading purposes, or simply serve as a forum for topical and current events.

Discussions can be found within the Module (grades 5-6) and also in the Course Navigation (grades 7-12).

Replying to Discussions

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In a discussion, you have several options to view and sort discussions. Use the search field [1] to search for replies or specific authors. To filter by unread replies, click the Unread button [2]. You can also collapse and expand [3] all discussion replies. 

To subscribe to a discussion, click the Subscribe button [4]. Subscribing to a discussion allows you to follow the discussion and receive notifications as set in your notification preferences. You are automatically subscribed to any discussions you reply to. If you are subscribed, the button will have a green background. To unsubscribe, click the Subscribe button and the background will turn gray.

To open settings for the discussion, click the Settings icon [5]. Settings allows you to mark all existing posts (replies) as read. If your discussion is graded, you can view the rubric for the discussion, if any.

You can view how many unread and replies are in a thread [6]. The number with a blue background indicates unread replies, while the number with a gray background indicates the total number of replies.

Restrictions with Discussions

  1. Restrictions can be set so students may not delete their replies. Use your words wisely.
  2. Restrictions can be set so students may not create their own discussions.

Here are Netiquette Guidelines to keep in mind when using discussions. 

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