Link to shared documents from content items and assignments

Updated 06 Nov 2023

In some courses, instructors and section instructors can create links to shared documents from other parts of the course, like from editable content pages or assignments. A document link either downloads the file or opens it in a new window depending on the file type or the student’s browser and software settings.

  • Benefits of links to Shared Documents — Such links avoid the need for students to use the course menu to open Document Sharing and then find a document. You can also give students the link so they can open a shared file.
  • The document must be shared. — When you upload a document, select Share with class for the Share setting to give students access to the document.
  • Use the same file name if you replace documents linked to from other parts of the course. Otherwise, the document's URL changes. Links to that document from other parts of the course break, like in a content page or assignment. (To use the same file name, first delete the document and then reupload a document of the same name.)

Do not upload the same file name more than once within a course.

  1. If available in your course, select Document Sharing from the course menu, or in some courses, after selecting Course Tools or Communication Tools.
  2. Select the three dot icon to open the Doc Sharing menu, then select Copy link.

    You cannot link to files uploaded by students.

  3. Open the content item or tool in the course menu you want to link from. For example, select the menu item for a content page and choose Edit.
  4. Paste the link according to the steps for the particular item, editor, or linking tool. Depending on the kind and length of the shared document, consider setting the link to open in a new tab or window.

    For example, you can:

    • Add your own media link within an assignment or custom question, if these tools are available in your course.
    • Add your document link within the content of any menu item or tool where you can add a link from a content page using the content editor.