Canvas Observer FAQs

What are pairing codes?

• Pairing codes are six-digit codes that are used to link students to observers in Canvas. Pairing codes are alphanumeric and case sensitive.

Who can generate pairing codes?

• Pairing codes can be generated by a student. Once generated, the pairing code can only be used to link the student who created the code or had. Additional pairing codes must be created for each student that will be linked to an observer.

How long are pairing codes valid?

• Pairing codes expire after seven days or their first successful use.

How many pairing codes can be active for a student at one time?

• A student can have five active pairing codes at one time. If a student has five active pairing codes and a new pairing code is generated, the oldest pairing code will become inactive.

Can I generate a pairing code as an observer?

• No. Observers cannot generate pairing codes. In order to receive a pairing code, observers need to ask the student they want to observe to log into their account and generate a pairing code.

What happens after I use a pairing code as an observer?

• After an observer enters a valid pairing code, the observer will be linked to the student. The observer can then view course content for the student. For more information, view the Observer Visibility and Participation PDF.

Can I link to multiple students using pairing codes as an observer?

• You can link to multiple students as an observer, as long as you use a unique pairing code for each student. When creating an account, you will only be able to enter one pairing code. Additional pairing codes can be entered from your User Settings.

Can a single pairing code be used by two observers?

• No. The student will need to generate a different pairing code for each observer. For example, two parents of the same child will each need to use a unique pairing code.

Can I generate a pairing code as a student?

• Yes. Students can generate pairing codes from their User Settings. Students can have up to five active pairing codes at one time. For more information, view the lesson How do I generate a pairing code for an observer as a student?.

Can I use a pairing code as a student?

• Students cannot use the pairing code to link to an observer from their own Canvas account. They must give the pairing code to the Canvas observer who will link to their account. An observer may be a parent, guardian, mentor, counselor, or another individual who needs to view the student’s Canvas courses.