Upcoming Canvas Updates: Discussion Checkpoints & Modernized Speedgrader

Canvas icon with update bannerStarting with this upcoming Summer 2025 term, Canvas will have two significant updates:

  1. Discussion Checkpoints
  2. Modernized Speedgrader

In advance of these changes, we want to share some important details about each. If you have any questions, please email techsupport@messiah.edu.


Discussion Checkpoints

Excitingly, Discussion Checkpoints will allow you to create one due date for initial posts and another for replies!

However, it’s important to understand some of the limitations that come with using this new feature. In particular, this breaks the score into two parts (posts vs. replies), which can lead to difficulties with rubrics.

Learn more about Discussion Checkpoints


Modernized Speedgrader

Most of the changes here are behind the scenes, resulting in faster load times and increased stability.

However, you will note some minor changes in the interface such as the Grade Status Selector being converted to a drop-down menu beside the grade.

Learn more about Modernized Speedgrader.


chalkboard that says the Instructional Designers are inInstructional Design Office Hours Spring 2025

For the Spring 2025 semester, walk-in assistance is available

  • Mondays at Winding Hill Café, 1 – 3 pm
  • Tuesdays in Zoom, 2 – 4 pm
  • Thursdays at Café Diem (library), 9 – 11 am

No appointments are necessary! Just come with your questions and/or brainstorm ideas.


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Rocky Allinger & Cindi Kerns
callinger@messiah.edu | ckerns@messiah.edu
Instructional Design Office Hours | ITS Helpdesk Blog