[Mostly OT] Feedback on Python homework using Canvas LMS

[MRAB]

On 2020-03-16 18:31, Irv Kalb wrote:
> This is for anyone who teaches Python and uses the Canvas Learning Management System (maybe a small group).
> 
> I teach Python at two colleges in Silicon Valley in California.  At both schools we use Canvas.  Overall, it works very well.  I use it to post notes, sample programs, build tests, post homework, and correct homework assignment.
> 
> However, there is a problem (bug!) when I give feedback on student's homework assignments.  I often give feedback by writing small snippets of code to explain what a student has done wrong, or how something could be done better.  The problem is that in the feedback section for homework assignments, Canvas eliminates any leading space characters.  So, I might write:
> 
> if x == y:
>      # do thing 1
> else:
>      # do thing 2
> 
> but when it gets posted and viewed by the student, it shows up as:
> 
> if x == y:
> # do thing 1
> else:
> # do thing 2
> 
> Which obviously is very annoying to me, and not as helpful to the student.
> 
> Knowing that this happens, I have started to write feedback using periods for indenting:
> 
> if x == y:
> ....# do thing 1
> else:
> ....# do thing 2
> 
> I have posted about this problem on the Canvas board, pointing out the importance of leading spaces, but I've had no response.  I also even wrote the company through snail mail, and got no response.
> 
> Question 1:  Does anyone have any suggestions for indenting besides using periods?
> 
> Question 2:  Does anyone know any other way to reach the appropriate person(s) at Canvas to address this issue.
> 
For appearances you could indent with non-breaking spaces, '\xA0'. Just 
be aware that it could be confusing if the user tries to copy and paste 
it, because although they'll look like spaces, they won't be!