Canvas access logs vs quiz logs: what’s the difference?
Understand how access logs differ from quiz logs and when each one matters.
Quick context
Canvas access logs and quiz logs serve different purposes. Access logs are about overall platform access, while quiz logs focus on a quiz attempt timeline.
In practice, you can use them together to build context (when someone accessed a course vs what happened during a specific attempt).
Quick comparison
| Topic | Canvas | Other side |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Quiz attempt timeline (quiz-specific) | Course/platform access (broader activity) |
| Typical questions answered | What happened during the attempt? reloads? focus changes? | When was a user active in Canvas? what pages were accessed? |
| Best used for | Exam/attempt analysis and technical incident context | General access patterns and course activity visibility |
| Limitations | Not a full recording; interpretation needs context | Not granular quiz attempt details |
Takeaway
If you’re analyzing a quiz situation, start with the quiz log, then use access logs for broader timing context.
Want the full breakdown? Read the full guide.