Click on the questions below to expand and view the answers.
1. What is a “module” in Brightspace?
A Brightspace module is a container for organizing course materials and activities, similar to a folder or to a “content area” on Blackboard. Modules can have sub-modules, which function like sub-folders. Brightspace modules can be accessed through the “course table of contents” widget on the course homepage and are also listed on the left side of the Content area that you access through the course navbar. Additional information about working with modules.
2. What is a “file” in Brightspace?
The term “file” can mean different things in Brightspace depending on the context and may be different from what you normally call a file. When you access the “Upload/Create” button inside a module, you’ll see two menu options that use the term “file.” “Upload files” refers to attaching a file (e.g., PDF, Excel spreadsheet) that is located on your computer. “Create a file” refers to creating a new page within Brightspace (also referred to in Brightspace as HTML and similar to an “item” in Blackboard). When you create a file, you use the Brightspace editor to add and format text, insert images, etc.
3. Where should I post my syllabus?
Many faculty create a module entitled “Course Information,” or something similar, to contain the syllabus and other course documents. You can also post the syllabus in the “Overview” section in “Content;” however, this has some limitations: 1) it is more likely to be overlooked by students since it is not included in the Table of Contents; and 2) you are only able to post one file to Overview, so cannot include all of your course documents. Note: If you do not post anything in the Overview section, that section will not be visible to students.
4. How can I add images to the tiles in the Table of Contents widget on the course homepage?
Images in the Table of Contents widgets are automatically generated from images that you include in the module description.
5. How can I add new items to/rearrange the order of items in the Table of Contents widget?
Items in the Table of Contents widget are automatically generated from the modules you create. To add a new item, simply create a new module. To rearrange the order, go to Content in the course navbar and drag and drop the modules to change the order.
6. What do the numbers in the Table of Contents tiles mean?
The numbers in the Table of Contents are intended to let students know what percent of each module they have completed. They are not likely to be useful to you as the instructor since they simply tell you what percentage of the module you have accessed. If you find the numbers distracting to students and not helping in the context of your course, you are able to make them disappear by going to Content -> Settings and change the Default Completion Status to “Not Required.”
7. How can I copy an individual module from one course to another?
Copying an individual module can be tricky because of the way that Brightspace organizes course material into different areas, such as Content, Assignments, Gradebook, etc. To copy an individual module, you will follow the instructions for copying select components/individual items of a course. You will need to select the module under Content and also all of the associated activities in their respective areas by checking “Select individual items to copy.” Areas to check for associated activities include Assignments, Grades, Discussions, and Quizzes.
