Brightspace Information Hub 📚

Brightspace by D2L is a cloud-based learning management system (LMS) with specific technical requirements for optimal performance. Generally, it's recommended to use the latest version of a supported web browser and ensure your operating system is up-to-date.

Many courses may utilize Microsoft Office 365 for assignments and collaboration. If you do not have Office 365, here are some common options:

• Free Access through Institution: Many educational institutions provide free access to Microsoft Office 365 for their active students. Check your institution's IT support or student portal for details on how to activate your free license.
• Web-based Office Apps: You can often use the free web-based versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint directly through your web browser. These offer core functionality and are accessible from any device with an internet connection.
• Alternative Office Suites: Consider using free, open-source office suites like LibreOffice or Google Docs/Sheets/Slides. While they might have slightly different interfaces, they are generally compatible with Microsoft Office file formats.

For students of the VSB (Vancouver School Board), you can also find support and resources for Office 365 by visiting the VSB Office 365 Support Portal.

Always check with your course instructor for specific software requirements for your assignments.

Submitting assignments in Brightspace is typically a straightforward process, though the exact steps might vary slightly depending on how your instructor has set up the assignment. Here are the general steps:

1. Navigate to the Assignment:
   • Look for the "Assignments" or "Dropbox" link in your course navigation bar.
   • Click on the specific assignment you wish to submit.
2. Review Assignment Details:
   • Read the assignment instructions, due date, and any specific submission requirements carefully.
3. Upload Your File(s):
   • Look for an "Add a File" or "Upload" button.
   • Browse your computer to select the file(s) you want to submit. You may be able to drag and drop files as well.
   • Ensure you are uploading the correct file format as specified by your instructor (e.g., .docx, .pdf).
4. Add Comments (Optional):
   • There is usually a text box where you can add comments for your instructor, such as explaining your submission or noting any issues.
5. Submit the Assignment:
   • After attaching your file(s) and adding any comments, click the "Submit" or "Save" button.
   • You should receive a confirmation message or email that your submission was successful. It's a good practice to keep this confirmation.
6. Verify Submission:
   • Often, you can go back to the assignment page to see your submitted files listed, confirming the submission.

If you encounter any issues or have questions about a specific assignment, always reach out to your instructor or your institution's IT support.

If you create documents using Apple Pages on a Mac, iPad, or iPhone, you may need to convert them to Microsoft Word's DOCX format for submission to Brightspace, as this is a widely accepted format. Here's how:

1. Open Your Pages Document:
   • Open the Pages document you wish to convert.
2. Export to Word:
   • Go to File (or the three-dot menu on iPad/iPhone).
   • Select Export To.
   • Choose Word.
3. Select Format and Save:
   • In the export options, ensure "Docx" is selected as the format.
   • Click Next (or "Export" on mobile).
   • Choose a location to save your new DOCX file and click Export (or "Save").
4. Verify the Converted File:
   • It's a good practice to open the newly created DOCX file in Microsoft Word (if you have it) or a compatible viewer to ensure the formatting is preserved as expected.

By converting your Pages files to DOCX, you can avoid potential compatibility issues and ensure your assignments are properly reviewed by your instructors in Brightspace.

If you have forgotten your username or password for your online course in Brightspace, especially for VSB (Vancouver School Board) online courses, please follow these instructions:

1. Send an Email:
   • Compose an email to: vlnsupport@vsb.bc.ca.
2. Include Required Information:
   • In the email, include your full name and your PEN (Personal Education Number).
3. Important Note:
   • Please DO NOT create another user account. The support team will assist you with your existing account.

The VSB support team will help you regain access to your online course. Thank you for your patience!

Before taking the screenshot, ensure the browser's address bar (showing the URL) is fully visible on your screen.

Thank you for helping us capture all the important information!