Canvas: Discussions Using Grade Checkpoints

This article explains the new Discussion feature called Discussion Checkpoints.  Checkpoints allow the Discussion for multiple due dates and grades for an initial post and required replies. This feature allows both the instructor and student to have better pacing and interaction in Discussions.

Summary

This article explains the new Discussion feature called Discussion Checkpoints.  Checkpoints allow the Discussion for multiple due dates and grades for an initial post and required replies. This feature allows both the instructor and student to have better pacing and interaction in Discussions.

 

Content

How to setup Discussion Checkpoints

For Instructors:

1. Create or Edit a Discussion: Navigate to the Discussions section of your course and create a new discussion or edit an existing one.
2. Enable Checkpoints: Scroll down to the Options area and select the Graded checkbox. Once checked, a new option will appear: Assign graded checkpoints. Check this box.
3. Configure Checkpoint Settings:
   1. Set the points possible for the "Reply to Topic" (initial post).
   2. Specify the number of "Additional Replies Required".
   3. Set the points possible for the "Additional Replies" (cumulative points for all required replies).
4. Set Due Dates: In the "Assign To" section, two separate due date fields will appear: "Reply to Topic Due Date" and "Required Replies Due Date". Enter the appropriate dates and times.
5. Save and Publish: Add clear instructions in the discussion prompt explaining the requirements and deadlines for each stage, then save and publish the discussion.

 

How Student view Discussion Checkpoint Due Dates

For Students:

The multiple due date for the Discussion appear in multiple location for the student.  See the images below of 3 locations for the Due Dates; Syllabus list, ToDo list and in the Discussion.   Additionally the multiple due dates appear in the Calendar view but that image is not in shown in this article.

Syllabus list of Due Dates: 

View Due Dates in Syllabus assessment list                                         

                                   

ToDo list of Due Dates

Discussion student view of link to multiple Due Dates                           

 

• In the Discussions using multiple due dates, students can click a View Due Dates link to see a tray displaying all the deadlines and requirements for the initial response and additional replies.  (see image above)
• Due Dates also appear on the Syllabus page, Calendar and ToDo list.
• Track Progress: The sidebar will update with a "Completed" message and timestamp once a checkpoint phase is finished.
• Pace Participation: Students should aim to submit their initial post by the first deadline to allow time for peers to respond and to meet the second deadline for their own required replies.
• Check Grades: In the Grades page, students can expand the discussion item to view the points awarded for each individual checkpoint.

 

Further Readings

How do I create a graded Discussion

Canvas: How to grade Discussions with Grade Checkpoints

Need additional help?

 

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request. For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.