Table of Contents
Introduction
This article provides an overview of the Gradebook and SpeedGrader tools in Canvas and how they are used for grading and feedback.
Use this guide if you want to:
Understand how grading works in Canvas
Learning the difference between the Gradebook and SpeedGrader
Set up and manage grading structures in your course
Before proceeding, ensure that:
- You have access to a Canvas course
- Assignments have been created in your course
What is the Gradebook?
The Gradebook in Canvas allows instructors to:
- View and manage student grades for all assignments
- Organize grades using assignment groups
- Apply weighting to assignment groups for final grade calculations
Important Notes:
- Grades are calculated based on assignment group weights
- Canvas does not support custom-calculated columns in the Gradebook
- Gradebook columns are automatically created when assignments are added
What is SpeedGrader?
SpeedGrader is a grading tool within Canvas that allows instructors to:
- Grade student submissions efficiently
- Provide written, audio, or video feedback
- Navigate between student submissions quickly
Grading Behavior in Canvas
Automatic Visibility:
- Grades and comments are visible to students immediately by default
Manual Grade Posting:
- Instructors can choose to hide grades and release them later
Creating Manual Grade Columns:
- Columns cannot be created manually
To create a column for manual entry:
- Create an assignment with No Submission or On Paper submission type
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Cannot create a Gradebook column
- Ensure you create an assignment (No Submission or On Paper)
Grades visible before expected
- Use grade posting policies to hide grades before grading
Incorrect grade calculations
- Verify assignment group weights are configured correctly
Additional Resources / Related Articles
How do I enter and edit grades in SpeedGrader?
How do I add an assignment group in a course?
How do I weight the final course grade based on assignment groups?
How do I hide or post assignment grades in SpeedGrader?
How do I create assignment columns for non-submission assignments in the Gradebook?
Contact / Escalation Information
For Canvas-related support, contact Kean IT Help Desk:
https://helpdesk.kean.edu/support/catalog/items/47