SCORM to Require Signed Launch Links

[jsailor]

In an effort to tighten the security of SCORM content, we are changing the way Canvas interacts with SCORM by integrating signed launch links. Currently, Canvas does not receive signed or encrypted launch links when interacting with SCORM, which allows users to share content in courses where it was not originally uploaded. This change ensures that all SCORM content will be encrypted, meaning that only users that are enrolled in the course where the SCORM content was uploaded will be given access. This upcoming change will make SCORM content more secure and prevent it from being viewed outside of the intended audiences. Affected courses include cases where links to SCORM content are embedded directly into a page or other content, such as assignment descriptions.

We intend to make this change on Saturday, July 17, 2021. This advanced notice should provide time for SCORM content facilitators to make any changes necessary to ensure that the content is being provided in a supported method. Canvas Engineering will be pulling the data and Customer Success Managers (CSMs) will work to notify any affected users prior to the upgrade. Also, any necessary downtime for completing this upgrade will be communicated well in advance of that date. 

To prepare for this change, Canvas users with course materials containing direct links to SCORM content will need to reupload the SCORM package through the SCORM option in their Course Navigation Menu. Reuploading content ensures all SCORM requests are authorized through Canvas, and encrypted SCORM content can be decrypted and accessed. Otherwise, the SCORM content will be inaccessible after July 17, 2021.

How to Upload a SCORM File

View SCORM Link

Confirm SCORM is visible for your course in the Course Navigation Menu.

If SCORM is not visible, but it is enabled for your institution, enable it in your course by opening the Course Settings link, then clicking the Navigation tab. Next to the SCORM tool, click the settings icon, then select the Enable button. At the bottom of the page, click the Save button.

Upload Content

Once you have confirmed the SCORM link is visible, click the link in your Course Navigation Menu and select the Upload button. Select the SCORM package that you would like to upload. 

Note: The upload process may take several minutes.

Once the upload is complete, the only three content types that can contain SCORM content will will be available: 

• Import as a graded assignment (with grade passback) 
• Import as an ungraded assignment
• Import as a page

In the Import Type drop-down menu, select the type applicable to your SCORM content.

Edit Content

After uploading SCORM content into Canvas as an assignment or page, additional content may be added around the SCORM media player by navigating to the assignment or page and then selecting the Edit button.

Test Content

Test the SCORM package by reloading the page or assignment when not in edit mode.