How can I prevent students from viewing a file immediately after it's uploaded?

[simon_coudevill]

For example: I have a new exam file that I don't want students to see until it's time for the exam to begin. As I understand it, the moment it's uploaded students receive a notification there's a new file which they can then access. And there's no way to disable this. But I don't want them to see it yet. Can I quickly unpublish it immediately after it's uploaded? Or is there a chance someone will see it? 

[gnoack · Accepted solution]

It depends a little on where you are placing or linking the file. But, unpublishing it immediately should do the trick.

If you only have it in your Files, you can hide the Files link in the course navigation.  If it's linked in a module, you can set a module release date, unpublish the module or file, or set a prerequisite for that module. 

You could also link to the file on a page, assignment or quiz activity  and do the same as just mentioned to the page or assignment or set an available date to the activity.

[gnoack]

Another thought triggered by a different discussion, create a subfolder that is unpublished and upload the file there first. Then you can unpublish the file and move it.

I tested this using the Test Student and it worked. I'd be interested to know if anyone can test this with a student account.

[gnoack]

If I read this correct, File push notifications won't be supported after Jan. 16, 2021. At least, it's not listed in the type of notification that will continue to be supported. 

https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/The-Canvas-tl-dr/Streamlining-Canvas-Push-Notifications/bc-p/4261...

[simon_coudevill]

I had another idea myself: upload an empty file, unpublish it and then upload the right file with the same name, overwriting it. Haven't tested it yet.