Enable Downloads for Embedded Videos in Canvas


Overview


Viewers aren't able to download your videos by default, but you can change that. This article covers how to make it so your video embedded in a module in Canvas can be downloaded. 

Though anyone can embed a video in Canvas whenever they see the rich content editor, these instructions largely apply to Canvas instructors.

Critical Concepts


Assumptions

Things to Keep in Mind

Steps to Take


The short version of what you need to do is to configure your embed so that you're using a particular player that includes the in-player download button. 

  1. Within Canvas, enter the course in question.
  2. Click Modules in the course navigation on the left.
  3. Find the page where you want to embed the video and click on it.
  4. Click Edit at the top right of the page.
  5. You should now see the rich content editor. Click the embed Kaltura media icon in the menu. (It looks like a little rainbow wheel.)

A screenshot of the rich content editor with the "embed Kaltura media" icon circled.

  1. In the window that opens, find the video you want to embed and click the gear icon on its row (not the "</> Embed") button.
  2. In the subsequent window, open the "Choose Player" pulldown menu and select Downloadable. (Note that there may be more than one option available for players with downloadable videos.)

An annotated screenshot of the "embed Kaltura media" window.

  1. Set any other additional settings you prefer for your embed, such as the embed size.
  2. Un-check the box for Set as my default settings. (Otherwise, if you embed future videos and don't opt to click the gear and configure them, the download player will be used.)
  3. Once you're done configuring your embed settings, click </> Embed at the top right of the window.

Now when a user views your video within the course element, they'll see a small download icon in the upper right corner of the player. Consider alerting students that they can download your embedded video by clicking the download icon at the top right of the player, or point them to our article on how to download an embedded video in Canvas.

If you still have questions or need additional assistance, feel free to contact us at kaltura@ucsd.edu.