Attn: Oklahoma Users - HB 3958

[KodyHookstra]

Our state passed a law that requires all school personnel communication to include a parent/guardian. This is to avoid one-on-one electronic communication between a teacher and student. 

At our school, we are working on troubleshooting the communication that takes place when instructors use the messaging icons in Canvas.  

When instructors use this "ENVELOPE ICON" :

The messaging box does not have an option to "ADD OBSERVERS".

But, when using the following "ENVELOPE ICON":

There is an option to "ADD OBSERVERS"

QUESTION:

Does anyone see an issue with requesting that BOTH icons allow teachers to "ADD OBSERVERS" to the communication?

[Chris_Hofer]

Hi there, @KodyHookstra ...

I see what you mean by not being able to add observers via those methods.  It almost sounds like you'd want to create an idea here in the Community so that it has the potential to be voted on down the road.  You can find out more about how to create a new idea here in the Community by reading through the documentation linked under the heading "Ideas and Themes" at:

Instructure Community Guide - Instructure Community (canvaslms.com)

Now, regarding the attached PDF...I'm not sure why you linked that...as it has to do with Bill No. 3958.  Did you accidentally attach this file?

Hope to hear back from you soon.

[KodyHookstra]

Hi Chris, 

Yes, I'm not sure it is a community voted item or an eventual request.  Canvas users in the state of Oklahoma will have to make adjustments, if not protocols regarding the use of the messaging on the platform.  Our team at our school has input on these decisions.  

One idea is to make sure our instructors use the communication option that allows observers to be added.  

I attached the House Bill 3958 for reference as to the nature of our new communication rules. 

Please pass this information along.  I know there are a lot of Canvas users in the state.  As for this community post, I'm still curious about the reaction from Canvas users and administrators.  The wording in the bill denotes punitive consequences for school personnel who break this law.  Is there a quick fix for Canvas Users that others are discussing? 

[Chris_Hofer]

@KodyHookstra ...

I would recommend getting in touch with your school's assigned Canvas CSM (Customer Success Manager).  I don't work for Instructure (I am a Canvas admin for an art college located in Detroit, Michigan).  Hopefully you can have a conversation with your CSM about these issues/concerns.

Good luck to you!