Canvas reports · Logs
Canvas Access Logs vs Quiz Logs: What's the Difference?
Canvas has multiple "log" concepts. Two common ones are access logs (course/page access history) and quiz logs (attempt event timelines). This guide explains how they differ.
Quick answer
Quiz logs focus on what happens inside a quiz attempt (events, timestamps, focus changes). Access logs typically focus on content access within Canvas (pages, resources, navigation) and are used for course engagement tracking.
Quiz logs (attempt timelines)
Quiz logs are usually tied to a specific attempt and show a sequence of events: start time, question views, focus changes, technical events, and submission.
Access logs (course/page access)
Access logs are typically about "what was opened" inside Canvas (pages/modules/files) and when. They are often used to review engagement or access patterns in a course.
FAQ
Which one matters more for quizzes?
For quiz attempts, the quiz log is the primary timeline. Access logs can provide broader context about course navigation.
Can access logs show other websites?
Access logs generally relate to Canvas content access, not external browsing history.
What should I read next?
Start with the quiz log guide to understand attempt-level events and how they’re interpreted.