File search

[suchitradeo]

I have been using Canvas for several years now and have always been frustrated that it doesn't have simple functionalities like search feature on files or pages. When we are trying to attach a file to a module page or looking for a page in "ALL pages", wouldn't it be nice to have the search feature? It is so painful to keep scrolling to find relevant file or page.

[adunn3]

Hello suchitradeo,

Thank you for your valuable feedback. While the current functionality doesn't include the option to search for items by name (such as pages or files) when directly adding them to a module, I understand the potential benefits this feature could offer. I encourage you to share your insights by submitting an Idea in the Roadmap section of the Canvas Community. This platform empowers you to contribute to the enhancement of Canvas features. More details about this process are provided below.

I'd also like to suggest a workaround that could simplify the process of searching for items in such cases. If you know the name of the file or page, you can use the keyboard shortcut "Control+F" (or "Command+F" on a Mac) to access the Find command. This will help you quickly locate and highlight the desired item on the page for easy selection. Example shown here.

The Canvas Community provides a space for users to engage in discussions about current product priorities, share ideas for improvements, and collaborate on enhancing Canvas. This environment guides our software developers in prioritizing their work. I recommend starting by searching for existing ideas that align with your suggestions and rating them. If you can't find a similar idea, feel free to create a new one to foster collaboration among community members.

For further insights into this process, you can refer to these articles:

• How do I create a new feature idea on Canvas?
• What is the feature development process for Canvas?

We eagerly await your valuable feedback in the Community!

[Chris_Hofer]

@suchitradeo ...

In addition to all the great info provided by @adunn3, you might want to take a look at a couple third-party LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability) external tools:

• Atomic Search
• Search - Smartsearch

If I recall correctly, when in my former role as a Canvas admin, I had a chance to try out Atomic Search, and it was pretty nice.  The Smartsearch LTI seems new to me, so I've not had an opportunity to try that one.  But, you might want to talk with your school's Canvas administrator to see if purchasing either of these might be options for you.

Anyway...just thought I'd share these two other options as well...for what it's worth.  Hope they will be of some help to you.