> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://academy.synap.ac/doc/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://academy.synap.ac/doc/collections/creating-collections.md). # Creating collections Collections are the way to deliver flexible learning to users. We recommend using collections for content that students can use at their own pace. When collections are updated or new items added the changes show immediately for users (unlike assignments) {% embed url="" %} Collections can be shown ## Setting up a collection Head over to the **Collections** page using the main menu and **Create a collection** to start making one. Provide a title and descriptions, then save.

The short description will display beneath the collections title. The description will only display when the collection is in player view.

The image will display on the main collections menu along with the title. If this isn't set then the default image set on the portal settings page will be used. The image will also be used for the collection items unless otherwise specified.

## Collection items Now it's time to add items to your collection, using the **Items** option on the sub menu, the content types for collections are: * Quizzes * Notes * Documents * Videos * Audio files * Embed * Zip files Presentations need to be converted to pdfs and uploaded as documents, or you can use the embed option, [see our guide on embedding presentations ](/doc/portal-settings/content-management/embed-presentations.md) Surveys, SCORM files, upload boxes and text entry are not supported in collections as these content types should be taken once & usually need to be reviewed. If you want to use these content types please consider using courses, see our doc below. {% content-ref url="/pages/gF3nDeeTrcS01zd5paau" %} [Course builder](/doc/courses/course-builder.md) {% endcontent-ref %}

You can choose to add an existing item from your Library or create a new item. For new items you will be taken directly to the builder for that item type. Once you've created the item it will be available in the Library for use in other collections.

On the collection item menu you can set a custom title, label, description, short description and image which only apply when the item is viewed in this collection. Use custom labels for example if you have a Synap quiz you want to call 'Survey' or 'Practice' same for any other collection item. You can also set whether users can access this item or just see it in the collection. For quizzes you can also toggle whether it can be added to a users study.

{% content-ref url="/pages/POVEZfDGlids9jCEV5v3" %} [Collections and the Study](/doc/collections/collections-and-the-study.md) {% endcontent-ref %} ### Advanced options Advanced options provide additional options to manage collections, including locking items and setting an access schedule.

Access schedule and Locked item on a collection

#### Locked Collection items Enablig the 'Locked' on a collection item will stop users being able to access the item, it will still show in both the card and player collection but it will be frozen and users cannot access it until it is unlocked. You can change 'Locked' to something else on the collection configure page by changing the custom restricted access label.

#### Access schedule Set an access schedule on collection items to provide an open window the item can be accessed. A fixed date range can be used where a close window is required, once the close window is met the collection item will be restricted again for all users. Or an indefinite schedule means once the open window is met the item will remain accessible for all users. Note that items must be both unlocked and within their access schedule in order for them to be accessed by users. If an item is locked, its status will display as Locked regardless of the release schedule. If it is unlocked, but the access schedule has not opened, the access schedule open date will be displayed.

## Organising You can organise your content into folders to make it easier for users to find specific content and navigate the collection. Click the Create Folders button in the top right hand corner of the screen and select a title and image.

After you've added folders you will be on the Folder menu where you can reorder folders and move items into different folders. This is also where you can add more folders and edit existing folder titles / images (using the pencil icon). To go back and add more items click on the red Collection button

Once you have folders you can add items directly into those folders using the Add item button under each folder. To return to managing folders click the Folders button in the top right hand corner

### Try for yourself Head over to or [click here](https://universe.synap.ac/join/sEqFLDslru) to get access to our demo platform with more examples of collections.

--- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://academy.synap.ac/doc/collections/creating-collections.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.