Summary

This article describes how to use the Office 365 app with Canvas. Files stored in OneDrive do not count against the Canvas file storage limit/quota of 1 GB.  OneDrive is also a handy way to post documents that may be updated frequently as the revisions do not to be reloaded to Canvas (as they would need to be if loaded directly to Canvas).

You can store most any type of file in OneDrive to use with Canvas including media-rich PowerPoint files. If you are using stand-alone video or audio media consider using Kaltura for storage and making it accessible through Canvas.

• Display a linked file from OneDrive in Canvas modules through the Office 365 app located in Externals Tools 
  • Pros: Most secure method for sharing a file from OneDrive in Canvas. 
  • Cons: Can only display one file at a time. Cannot be used on the Syllabus page.
• Use OneDrive to create shareable links to files and manage access to OneDrive files 
  • Pros: Can be used on the Syllabus page. Can be used to share multiple documents on a single content page. 
  • Cons: Anyone with permissions to view the file URL can access the document.

How-To

• Pros: Most secure method for sharing a file from OneDrive in Canvas.
• Cons: Can only display one file at a time. Cannot be used on the Syllabus page.

Instructions

Step 1 - From the Modules page, click the plus icon to add a Page.

Step 2 - In the resulting window select External Tool from the drop-down menu, then select Office 365.

Step 3 - In the OneDrive window you will see a list of your Folders and Files.  Locate the file you want to attach. 

Step 4 - Select Attach File to add the file to Canvas. Follow the prompts to access the desired file from your OneDrive account.

Outcome

You are able to display a linked file from OneDrive in Canvas modules through the Office 365 app located in Externals Tools.

• Students will see the linked file under the Module.   
• The linked file will open in a new window.
• Students will be able to print and/or download the file.

Note: If you don't want students to be able to download (and subsequently share) the file from OneDrive, follow the instructions in the related KB article on OneDrive: Sharing Files and Creating Links to set the sharing settings you prefer.  See details in the next task.

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• Pros: Can be used on the Syllabus page. Can be used to share multiple documents on a single content page.
• Cons: Anyone with permissions to view the file URL can access the document.

Instructions

Step 1 - Login to OneDrive  in your browser.

Step 2 - Navigate to the file you want to share.

Step 3 - Mouse over the file and Click the Share Icon to the right of the file-name .

Step 4 - Follow the instructions in the related KB article on OneDrive: Sharing Files and Creating Links to create and copy a shareable link to the file.

Step 5 - In Canvas, navigate to the page where you want to link a file from OneDrive. 

Step 6 - Paste the link copied in Step 4 into the Canvas page in the desired location.

Outcome

You are able to use OneDrive to create shareable links to files and manage access to OneDrive files.

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Further Readings 

Canvas: Microsoft OneDrive Integration

OneDrive: Sharing Files and Creating Links

M365 OneDrive Login  

Need additional help?

Submit a Canvas (myCourses) support request or 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.