[Files] Enable Annotation Functionality for PDFs in the Canvas Web Version

[jdurancal]

Problem statement:

Currently, students can annotate PDFs in the Canvas Student App, but this functionality is not available in the web version. This creates an inconsistent user experience, especially for students who primarily rely on the web to access their study materials. For instance, a student using the Student App can highlight, add notes, and annotate directly on PDFs provided by instructors, whereas the same student cannot perform these actions on the web version, requiring them to download the file and use third-party tools. This disparity can disrupt the learning workflow, limit students’ ability to interact with materials directly within Canvas, and lead to confusion about platform capabilities.

Proposed solution:

We propose enabling the annotation functionality directly on PDFs in the web version of Canvas. By aligning the web version with the Student App's capabilities, students would have a cohesive experience across platforms. This solution would allow students to study more effectively by interacting with their materials in one place, reducing the need for external tools. It would also enhance the usability of Canvas as an all-in-one platform for learning. Additionally, this functionality would help ensure feature parity between the web and app versions, addressing a key pain point for users and supporting their learning process consistently.

User role(s):

student

[KristinL]

Hi @jdurancal -

Thank you for sharing this idea with the Instructure Community!

Within assignment settings, if the instructor chooses Online Assignments and then Annotations, students can annotate directly on the file provided by the instructor.

With the browser, students have the ability to annotate PDFs as part of the assignment workflow. How do I annotate a file as an assignment submission in Canvas? 

Would this process work for you?

[jdurancal]

Hi @KristinL 

Thank you for your response! The annotation functionality for assignments is helpful, but the issue I’m referring to is different.

In the Canvas Student App, students can annotate PDFs attached to pages or modules using an integrated tool. However, on the web version, this feature isn’t available. Students can only view these PDFs without annotating unless they download the file and use third-party tools.

This creates a less seamless experience for students who rely on the web version. I hope this clarifies the request!

Thank you again for your time and feedback.

[KristinL]

Hi, @jdurancal  -  Thank you for the reply!

I better understand now -- these are the resources that are not necessarily associated with assignment requirements.