Hypothes.is
Hypothesis enables students to collaboratively comment on or annotate online texts, such as web pages, online PDFs, digital articles, or even specific course files in Canvas.
Learn more about Hypothesis at https://web.hypothes.is/
When a student or instructor accesses Hypothesis in Canvas for the first time, an account is automatically created for them. Students and teachers within the course will be part of a private Hypothesis group tied specifically to the Canvas course.
NOTE: Hypothesis does not appear on the left-hand navigation of a course. It is used primarily in Modules and Assignments (including Speedgrader) as an External Tool.
Setting up Hypothes.is
Sometimes you may find yourself working with a PDF in which none of the text is selectable. This usually happens when a PDF is created from scanned images of text. You can use OCR technology to optimize these PDFs.
How to set up your PDF for Hypothesis annotation
Hypothesis can be added in Modules and Assignments. When added, instructors choose one of the following options:
- Enter URL of web page or PDF
- Select PDF from Canvas (this will pull from the Files area of the course)
- Select PDF from Google Drive (Google sign-in required)
How to set up Hypothesis readings through Canvas Modules
- Create or navigate to an existing Module
- Click the + button and select External Tool as the item type
- Select Hypothesis from the list of tools
- Add the URL or select the PDF file to use
- Check the box to Load in a new tab
- Click the blue Add Item button
Creating an Hypothesis URL module item in Canvas
Creating an Hypothesis PDF module item in Canvas
How to set up Hypothesis readings through Canvas Assignments
- Create an Assignment
- For submission type, select External Tool
- Select Hypothesis from the list of tools
- Add the URL or select the PDF file to use
- Check the box to Load in a new tab
- Save and publish your assignment when all of the other details have been added
NOTE: All students in the course will see annotations made by their peers. Only private notes remain hidden from other students and the instructor.
When an Assignment includes a Hypothesis, comments will be filtered only to show the specific student being evaluated in Speedgrader.
Grading Hypothesis in Speedgrader
Group Assignments
How to use Hypothesis with small groups Links to an external site.
Support
Meet with Hypothesis Customer Success Links to an external site.
Support questions to support@hypothes.is
Student Guides
Annotation etiquette for students
Instructional Resources
An Illustrated Guide to Annotation Types
Using images, links, and videos in annotations
Annotation Basics
Introduction to the Hypothesis LMS App for Students
Links to an external site.
View Hypothesis Partner Workshops and see how others are using Hypothesis in Canvas
Updated 6/6/2023 by S. Blake