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Integrating Video into Canvas Activities

Using Kaltura makes it easy to embed videos for instructional purposes or to collect video submissions from students. This page explores how faculty can enhance student engagement and learning by integrating video into Canvas Assignments and Quizzes, as well as how to set up Kaltura Quizzes that report to the Canvas Gradebook. It also includes best practices for student submissions and alternative tools for video-based discussions.

? Using Video in Canvas Assignments

Faculty can embed Kaltura videos into assignment instructions or prompts using the Rich-Text Editor. This supports:

  • Instructional Videos: Provide context, explain expectations, or demonstrate a process.
  • Question Prompts: Include a video students must watch before answering a question (e.g., a short lecture clip, scenario, or demonstration).

Student Submissions:

  • Kaltura is available in the Text Entry submission type and helps track when the video was uploaded to Kaltura.
  • Students can record or upload videos as part of their assignment submission using:
    • Express Capture (record directly in browser)
    • Media Upload (upload a pre-recorded video)

Best Practices for Student Video Submissions

  • Use the Text Entry submission type and remind students to use Kaltura (Screenshot of the Kaltura Icon in the Rich-Text Editor) from the tools in the Rich-Text Editor.
  • Encourage students to use Express Capture for quick responses or Media Upload for polished presentations.
  • Remind students to title their videos clearly and check playback before submitting.

❓ Using Video in Canvas Quizzes

Kaltura videos can be embedded into quiz questions to support:

  • Listening or viewing comprehension
  • Scenario-based analysis
  • Demonstration critique

Use the Rich-Text Editor in quiz questions to embed media. Combine with multiple-choice, short answer, or essay formats.

? Keep videos short (under 5 minutes) to maintain focus and reduce loading issues.

? Creating and Using Kaltura Quizzes

Kaltura Quizzes embed questions directly into a video and can report scores to the Canvas Gradebook.

To create a Kaltura Quiz:

  • Go to My Media in Canvas
  • Click Edit on a video and launch the Quiz Editor
  • Insert questions and configure settings:
    • Enable Gradebook Integration
    • Choose scoring and feedback options

Embedding in Canvas:

  • Use the Kaltura Embed Tool in an Assignment or Page
  • Select the quiz version of the video
  • Use the External Tool submission type for grade passback

Important: For the Quiz score to be added to your Canavas Grades, you must create a Canvas assignment using the External Tool submission type.

? Create a video quiz assignment in Canvas – Step-by-step walkthrough with screenshots.

? Video-Based Discussions with VoiceThread

For threaded video conversations, VoiceThread is recommended. It supports video, audio, and text comments with peer replies.

Use Cases:

  • Language practice
  • Peer review
  • Collaborative storytelling

VoiceThread integrates with Canvas and supports grading.

♿ Accessibility and Best Practices

  • Caption all instructional videos using Kaltura’s auto-captioning and editing tools
  • Encourage students to speak clearly and avoid background noise
  • Provide transcripts or alternative formats when needed
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