The “due date” is the date and time when the assignment is due. Student assignments submitted after the due date will be marked as late in the Gradebook. Due Dates are not required in Canvas, but they help manage course workflow and deadlines.
Be careful using “availability dates.” Availability Dates may cause students to miss the opportunity to do late work or go back and see past assignments, especially if your window is only a day or two.
Consider using “available from” but leaving “available until” blank, that will allow students to complete and view assignments.
These tips are true for all assignments, including Discussions and Quizzes.
Additional information about due dates and availability dates are included in the Canvas Guides.