Python Canvas API library

[alunsfor]

I am venturing into the world of Python and I noticed that their is a CanvasAPI library.  I was working in Chatgpt today looking up code and in the response it mentioned "Additionally, you might need to install the canvasapi library if you haven't already".  Do anyone have any directions for installing this?

I did ask ChatGpt and received the following but wasn't sure it was accurate:

You can install the `canvasapi` library using the Python package manager, `pip`. Here's how you can do it:

1. **Open a terminal or command prompt**: Navigate to your operating system's terminal or command prompt.

2. **Install the `canvasapi` library**: Type the following command and press Enter:

```
pip install canvasapi
```

This command will download and install the `canvasapi` library along with its dependencies.

3. **Wait for installation**: Depending on your internet connection speed and system configuration, the installation process may take a few moments.

4. **Verify installation**: After the installation is complete, you can verify that the library is installed correctly by opening a Python interpreter or running a Python script and trying to import the library:

```python
import canvasapi
```

If no errors occur, it means the library has been installed successfully.

You can install the `canvasapi` library on your local machine where you'll be running your Python scripts that interact with Canvas. Typically, you'd install it in the environment where you'll be developing your application or script. If you're using a virtual environment for your Python projects, make sure to activate the environment before running the `pip install` command.

Are these the correct steps or does anyone have a new set of steps you might be willing to share.  Also, what is the benefit of installing?

[JamesSekcienski · Accepted solution]

@alunsfor 

It looks like it has provided you with the correct instructions for installing canvasapi and confirming it is installed.

You can also refer to canvasapi - PyPI for an overview of the Python Package.

UCF also has their own documentation site for canvasapi: Getting Started with CanvasAPI 

I haven't used it personally, but it provides a lot of pre-defined functions and objects that make it easier to work with the Canvas API without needing to code everything from scratch to make Canvas API calls.  

[alunsfor]

Thank you.

[melodyc_lam]

Hey @alunsfor --

The CanvasAPI library allows someone with basic Python programming knowledge (making function calls, for loops, etc.) to interact with the Canvas API WITHOUT having to know how to call the API endpoints using a HTTP library (like requests) or having to deal with pagination (which can be a PITA).

In other words, it can help quickly bring up Canvas scripting ideas to life without having to deal with the backend too much. About 80-85% of the Canvas API endpoints are in the CanvasAPI library (if not more); these endpoints are the most frequently used and unless you need something very, very specific that isn't in the library (like SIS importing), you can use the CanvasAPI library.

For me, I used it as a jumping point to understanding how the Canvas API works and how HTTP calls work in Python. I've moved away from the library for the most part but I always recommend it still as a starting point for anybody new to the Canvas API or if they're good at the CanvasAPI but just starting to get the hang of Python.

Hope this helps!

[WillGHampton]

Hi alunsfor,

As others have noted, you do have correct information for installing the Python library. There is a bit of complexity left out of  'install with pip' answer. Adding the library Canvasapi with pip makes it available to Python system-wide. If you are on a Windows system developing only for the Canvasapi project this is fine. If you are on Linux, macos or you are developing multiple Python projects you may want to look into Python virtual environments to avoid potential dependency issues down the line. More information on why this could be important is here: https://realpython.com/python-virtual-environments-a-primer/#why-do-you-need-virtual-environments

If you are developing on Windows targeting one set of dependencies, pip without virtual environment is fine. If not, you should set up a virtual python environment first then pip install inside the Python virtual environment. It is an extra layer but pretty simple to get running once you decide to do it.

Quoting from the linked website:

Any time you’re working on a Python project that uses external dependencies that you’re installing with pip, it’s best to first create a virtual environment (do this in the folder you will be working in):

python -m venv venv

To activate the virtual environment, type this command when in that same folder:

PS> venv\Scripts\activate
(venv) PS>

Now run the pip command. The venv will need to be active to run your CanvasAPI script