How to download files submitted by students from "SpeedGrader"?

Question

I set an assignment, and my students have uploaded files as requested. I want to download these so I can add in-text comments (SpeedGrader is too clunky). On the left of the SppedGrader page is the text "Submitted Files: (Click to load.)", but when I click on what appears to be the link for the file, nothing happens. I don't want to download ALL the assignments - just one at a time as they come in. I can do this if I wait for the email notification, which takes me to a page that allows me to download assignments, but the notification takes a long time to arrive.

Does anyone know how to download individual submissions- or would it be better to ask students to email me their assignments?

Thanks

jeremyfw · Accepted Answer

You’re not missing a permission or a feature - it’s a layout issue in SpeedGrader.

In the SpeedGrader view for an individual student, the Download icon for submitted files can be hidden if the left submission pane is too narrow. When that happens, clicking the filename only loads the preview and nothing appears to download.

What to do:

Drag the vertical divider between the submission details pane (left) and the document preview (right) to make the left pane wider. Once there’s enough space, you’ll see the download (↓) icon appear next to the file name. Click that icon to download the individual submission immediately.

No need to wait for email notifications, bulk-download all submissions, or have students email files, the option is there, just hidden by the responsive UI.

Chris · Accepted Answer

Hi @dbradbury,

I think you may want to check out the How do I download all student submissions for an assignment? - Instructure Community guide for this.  You can download all student submissions as a .zip file, which would seem to suit your needs.  You can also comment on the documents, re-zip them and upload back to Canvas in bulk as long as you don't rename the files.

I hope this info helps!

-Chris