[ARCHIVED] PDFs and Canvas

[Joda1]

I hate canvas..... I just hate this program. I spend all night getting my class ready to rock. I literally login as multiple students to check that every assignment is working on the student app for the ipad and everything works great..... . Until I get to school and actually have to use it with students. Half my students can open up every pdf I post and edit it without a worry in the world. The other half can't open, edit, or submit the files. Every student has the same version of iPad and the student app for iPad downloaded and they are using it to try and edit, open, and submit.  Is there a solution to this problem is Canvas just stupid?

[rseilham]

Hi @Joda1 ,

I'm sorry to hear that the Canvas Student app is causing issues for your class. I'm not sure I have a solution, but I would like to learn more so I can better assist you. 

1. Are your students using the built-in annotation tools within the Canvas Student app or a third-party app for annotations?
2. Are all the devices exactly the same? For instance, are they school assigned?

Once again, sorry for the issues, but let's see if I can learn more to better help you. Thanks. 

[Joda1]

The students are attempting to use the tools with canvas to annotate their PDFs. The devices are all the same and issued by the school. I am sorry too. As if this whole distance learning wasn't difficult enough, I HAVE to do it saddled to a LMS that randomly decides who gets their assignments and who doesn't.

[rseilham]

Hi, @Joda1 

I looked into this on a few devices and asked around but have not heard of or seen PDFs not opening for some users, but not others, especially related to annotations. It would make more sense if it was all or nothing. 

I think support would need to look at a specific case and do a deep dive. I would suggest you and/or your students work with your local support to troubleshoot. I would also suggest students Report an Issue under the Help section of the app: 

How do I get help with the Student app on my iOS device? 

I'll keep looking around, but that is my best suggestion at this point.