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Academic Technology Launchpad: Brightspace FAQs

Student Technology Help Desk

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FAQs

Q. How will I know if my Spring 2025 course is using Brightspace?

A limited number of courses will be using our new Learning Management System (LMS), Brightspace, for coursework in Spring 2025 term. If your class is currently slated to take place in Brightspace there will be a class note in myMadisonCollege. For additional information with screenshots: https://libanswers.madisoncollege.edu/faq/416738

Q. I am an early adopter student in Spring 2025 using Brightspace. How and where do I access Brightspace?

A limited number of courses will be using Brightspace, our new Learning Management System (LMS), during Spring 2025 semester. If your course is using Brightspace, your instructor will communicate details on access at the beginning of, or just prior to, Spring term. Once it's available, you will also see a link within your Blackboard course that will direct you to Brightspace.

To learn more, we recommend attending one of the informational workshops the Student Technology Help Desk is offering. This will provide a great overview of what to expect. You will also be given access to a Brightspace Student Training Course within Brightspace, or you can get started learning about the system through the videos on our Tutorials & Training page.

Q. What is the status of the LMS project?

The project is in the implementation phase, which consists of pilot phases during Spring 2025 and Summer 2025.

Q. What is the timeline for moving to Brightspace? 

We are working diligently to ensure a smooth transition to a full college-wide launch in Brightspace in fall 2025. Prior to this, a test group will deliver instruction via Brightspace to students during Spring and Summer 2025 in Brightspace courses. All summer 2025 courses will be taught in Brightspace.

Q. What are the main reasons Brightspace by D2L was chosen? 

Five features of Brightspace figured into the final selection: 

  1. A user-friendly interface with fully responsive mobile functionality to support learning anytime, anywhere
  2. Scalability and flexibility to adapt and grow with our evolving academic and administrative requirements, ensuring a future-forward solution.
  3. A holistic approach to accessibility by providing an accessible platform for all users and learning needs.
  4. Increased reporting functionality to track and analyze educational data, crucial for informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
  5. Increased support for our faculty, staff, and students to ensure a smooth user experience. 

Q. When will training occur? 

The training plan for our entire college is in the refinement stage and will be tested by early adopter students. Completion of an interactive asynchronous training course delivered in Brightspace will ensure you feel comfortable with Brightspace. In addition to the course, optional workshops on key topics will be provided. Most training will occur in spring 2025. Visit our Tutorials & Training page for more information and resources on current and future training opportunities. 

Q. When we move to Brightspace, what will happen to my existing Blackboard content? 

With any transition, we strive to minimize the impact on everyone involved. Brightspace offers migration options to move existing content into their LMS. The LMS Project Team will explore these options with D2L and provide faculty the ability to utilize solutions that best meets their needs.

Q. Who has been involved in the LMS evaluation?

A cross-functional team involving faculty, students, staff, librarians, tech services, CETL, and administrators spent significant time evaluating and researching options for Madison College. We are confident we have found an excellent product to take us into the future!

Q. I have questions or additional comments and feedback, who should I contact? 

For additional feedback, comments or questions, please contact us at student-help@madisoncollege.edu