Changing module items after a student has begun without affecting prerequisites or requirements (new

Question

I have launched a self-paced course that people can take at any time (no start or end dates).  It is also ungraded.  I do have modules that are set as prerequisites and parts of the modules are set as requirements.  Many students have already started or are taking the course.  If I add new files to those modules, will that mess up their progress / be read by Canvas as if they didn't complete the module and reset that they already completed a prerequisite module or required part of a module?  If yes, do they simply need to go in an open the file in order to re-unlock the other modules?  AND will what they already completed in those other modules be re-set or will it be read as if they completed it?  I don't want to inadvertently lock anyone out from being able to go back to resources in modules they have already completed. Thank you!

Jenny121 · Accepted Answer

In Canvas, adding new files to a module that already has prerequisites or requirements typically won't reset a student's existing progress, unless you specifically add the new file as a required item within the module settings.

If the new file is just added for reference (and not marked as a requirement), students should retain their progress and access to future modules. However, if you do make the new file a requirement, students may need to open or view that file for the system to count the module as "complete" again—but it won't reset what they've already done in subsequent modules.

To be safe:

Avoid adding the new content as a requirement if you don’t want to impact progress.

Or, clearly communicate to students that they may need to open the new file to maintain module access if it’s added as a required item.

Hope that helps keep things smooth for your learners