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Canvas - Inserting Content from an External Tool with the Rich Content Editor

This document details how to insert content from an external source by using the Rich Content Editor in Canvas.

Related KBs:

Kaltura - Inserting a Video in Canvas with the Rich Content Editor
PlayPosit (Canvas) - Create a Graded Interactive Video Assignment


***NOTE: Content from some external (third party) tools that support Canvas integration can be linked or embedded in Canvas pages, assignments, discussions, quizzes, and announcements with the Rich Content Editor. These tools include Canvas Commons, Films on Demand, Microsoft Teams Meetings, Kaltura/My Media, Office 365, TedEd, Vimeo, and YouTube. Kaltura/My Media and Office 365 have dedicated buttons in the toolbar, while the rest can be accessed through the Apps button. Some tools only have the option for content to appear as a link, whereas others can be embedded.***

***NOTE: For PlayPosit, this method is only for ungraded activities. For graded PlayPosit activities, please use Canvas assignments and the external tool submission type.***


1. Navigate to an editable Canvas page, discussion, etc. and select the "Edit" button with the pencil icon (or "Reply" for discussion posts) to open the Rich Content Editor.

Screenshot of Edit Button

2. In the Rich Content Editor, select the "Apps" button (it appears as a plug icon) in the toolbar. If you can't see the Apps button, select the "More" button (will appear as three stacked dots) to see all tools.

Screenshot of Apps Buttons

3. Select "View All."

Screenshot of View All Apps

4. A window will open with a list of the external tools that support Canvas integration with the Rich Content Editor. Select the name of the tool you wish to use. You may have to slide one or both scroll bars on the right side to reveal all tools.

Screenshot of Select Your External Tool

5. A menu for your selected tool will open. Navigate to the content you wish to add and follow the on-screen instructions to link or embed the content.

Screenshot of Search and Select Your Media

6. Once you have successfully added the content, the Apps menu window will close and your content should appear in the Rich Content Editor. Select "Save" (or "Post Reply" for discussion posts) to save your work.

Screenshot of Save Button



Keywordsfilms on demand, teded, vimeo, youtube, microsoft teams meetings, canvas commons, kaltura, my media, office 365, playposit, third party, add, insert, page, embed, apps, plugin, rce, video, source   Doc ID108046
OwnerSamantha M.GroupUW Green Bay
Created2020-12-22 13:44:38Updated2023-05-16 09:25:54
SitesUW Green Bay
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