Convert PDF Files to Canvas Pages

Converting your PDF files into Canvas pages is a recommended approach to ensure better accessibility. PDF files often encounter issues when being accessed online, making it challenging for users with disabilities. Thankfully, Canvas has simplified the process of transforming PDF documents into Canvas pages, making it a user-friendly solution for enhancing accessibility.

On This Page

Examples

PDF files are difficult to view on mobile devices and are generally inaccessible to students with disabilities. We now have some tools that make it possible to convert PDF files in your course to more usable and accessible Canvas pages. Below are examples of PDF files that may be problematic:

Poorly Scanned Files

Some PDF files are scanned poorly and can be crooked or difficult to read.

Viewing PDF on Mobile

Small Text

When viewed on a mobile device, PDF files can be difficult to read because the text is small and doesn't adjust to the smaller screen.

Zoomed In

While it is possible to zoom in on a PDF file on a mobile device, the experience is difficult and requires back and forth scrolling.

Content transformed for Canvas

And below are examples of that same content when transformed to a Canvas page where it is easier to read, easier to edit, and it works great on mobile devices:

Cleaned Up Scan

When converted to a Canvas page the content is easier to read or edit as needed.

Canvas Page on Mobile Device

When converted to a Canvas page the content is responsive and easier to read on a mobile device.

Note: You can see additional examples of PDF files converted to Canvas pages here. If you are interested in seeing what a PDF file from your course looks like, reach out to accessibility@usu.edu and we are happy to give you an example and help convert your content to a friendlier format.

Questions

Can I convert my PDF files to Canvas pages?

Absolutely! From the files section of any course click on the 3 dots to the far right and click "Convert to Canvas Page". If your files are not converting cleanly, please reach out to us and we can help you clean them up!

Convert to Canvas Page

What about the PDF file?

We can still link to the PDF file at the top of your Canvas page so it is available as a secondary source for any reason - or in some cases, you can get rid of the PDF file completely and students can easily print their content directly from Canvas! 

Are there any copyright concerns when transforming my content?

As long as the document you are using falls under fair use then a more accessible version of that document falls within those bounds as well.

Additional Resources

  1. PDF: Still Unfit for Human Consumption, 20 Years Later
    Learn more about the challenges of reading PDF files online from the Nielsen Norman Group.
  2. If you have a good reason to use a PDF file, reach out to the accessibility team