Table of Contents
Introduction
This article explains how instructors can troubleshoot visibility issues in Canvas by viewing their course from a student’s perspective.
Use this guide if:
- Students report they cannot see your course
- Students cannot access modules, assignments, or other content
- You want to verify what students can or cannot view
Before proceeding, ensure that:
- You are enrolled in the course as an instructor
- Your course content has been created and organized
Students Cannot See Course or Content
Step 1: Publish Your Course
- Courses must be published for students to access them
- If a course is unpublished, it will not be visible to students
Step 2: Check Content Visibility
- Ensure that all modules, assignments, and pages are published
- Verify that content is not restricted by:
- Availability dates
- Module prerequisites or requirements
How to View Your Course as a Student
Step 1: Enable Student View
- Open your course in Canvas
- Click Settings
- Select Student View
Step 2: Review Course Content
Navigate through your course as a test student
Confirm that:
- Content is visible
- Links are working
- Items are not locked or restricted
Step 3: Exit Student View
- Click Leave Student View when finished
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
- Course is published but students still cannot see it
- Check course start and end dates
- Ensure students are enrolled
Specific content not visible
- Confirm the item is published
- Review module settings and restrictions
Content appears locked
- Check for prerequisite modules or date restrictions
Additional Resources / Related Articles
- How do I publish a course?
- How do I view a course as a test student using Student View?
Contact / Escalation Information
- For Canvas-related support, contact Kean IT Help Desk: