Working with External Data - epi-workbench/EWBTemplates GitHub Wiki
This quick reference shows how to upload, share, and import datasets in Epi-Workbench lessons, making it easy for learners to explore real-world data right inside the platform.
Upload datasets to the Epi-Workbench platform using the Lesson File Uploader button on the Course Builder page.
Doing so creates a unique file URL such as https://dev.epi-workbench.com/instructor/download/media/<uuid>. Copy this URL for direct download links (see below).
Learners can obtain datasets in two ways:
- Sidebar download: Any file added with the Lesson File Uploader appears automatically in the Lesson Files library.
- Explicit link: Use the full URL returned after upload:
[Download dataset x](https://dev.epi-workbench.com/instructor/download/media/7b1b7f48-eabc-48c3-8eac-5ce9b8435ef3)Warning
Linking by file name alone ([Download dataset x](dataset x.xls)) will not work.
Inside an R code block, import by file name — but only for files uploaded with the Lesson File Uploader:
library(readxl)
df <- read_excel("dataset x.xls")Warning
Attempts to import via the full URL (or to import a dataset uploaded through Media Files) will fail.
- Use descriptive, space-free file names (e.g.,
health_study_2025.xlsx). - Load required packages at the top of the lesson:
library(dplyr, warn.conflicts = FALSE)
library(readxl, warn.conflicts = FALSE)- Preview the lesson to confirm the dataset appears in the sidebar and imports correctly.
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Dataset missing from sidebar | Uploaded via Media Files instead of Lesson File Uploader | Re-upload with Lesson File Uploader |
| Download link returns 404 | Link uses file name only | Replace with full URL |
read_excel() says "cannot open file" |
File not in working directory (or wrong name) | Check spelling; confirm upload method |
Following these conventions ensures datasets are easy to find, download, and analyze—delivering a smooth learning experience across the Epi-Workbench platform.
