Starting July 18, 2026, instructors may notice a slightly new design to the Speedgrader interface in bCourses. This update from the vendor (Instructure Canvas) focuses primarily on backend improvements for high-enrollment courses, such as faster load times and increased stability.
In addition to upgrades to the backend technology, instructors will also see the following minor UI changes when using Speedgrader.
Updated Sections Selector
The right side of the SpeedGrader menu bar includes the student list for the assignment. The updated sections selector in the new SpeedGrader view indicates what student you are currently viewing with an eyeball icon in the list and also provides you with the option to view students for all sections or list only students in specific sections.
New Submissions Status Selector
In the new SpeedGrader view, you can use the new submissions status selector to edit the submission status for a student's or group's assignment, discussion, or quiz. Available statuses include Late, Missing, Excused, and None. Previously, you would have to change the status of a submission in the Gradebook.
New Comment Library Filter
The Comment Library allows instructors to save and reuse frequently used text feedback in SpeedGrader. In the new SpeedGrader view, you can use the new Comment Library filter to load only comments you have saved for specific courses or assignments.
More prominent “No Submission” alert
To learn more about the Performance and Usability Upgrades for SpeedGrader, refer to the “How do I use SpeedGrader with Performance and Usability Upgrades?” article or reference the SpeedGrader with Performance and Usability Upgrades help articles. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact our support team at bcourseshelp@berkeley.edu or schedule a 1:1 bCourses consultation.