Can the Observer role be locked down more?

Question

Hello,

We are instituting a program to assign Observer status for some advisors. We would like to create a custom Observer-based role that only can see course Announcements and the associated student's Gradebook—no discussions, assignments, or course content. Is it possible to lock down the Observer role even more tightly than what is shown in the What is the Observer role? or Canvas Course Role Permissions articles?

Thanks, Bill

Chris · Accepted Answer

Hi @wjones20 (long time no see!),

I actually don't think it's possible to lock down the observer role in the way you are describing.  While @Jeff_F is right that there are some configurable permissions for observers, when the observer is linked to a student things like being able to view assignments seems to be just inherent to the architecture of the role in Canvas.

It seems like many institutions end up building some sort of advisor dashboard to track studnet progress/grades without giving the advisor access to Canvas.  That approach definitely takes some developer time and will require maintenance along the way, so it may not be feasible for you or others, but if a much more restricted view than what observer has is required it may be the way to go.

-Chris