Using McGraw Hill SIMnet within Brightspace

Introduction:

This guide explains how to access and use McGraw Hill SIMnet resources (like SIMbooks, Projects, and Exams) when they are integrated directly into your Brightspace course. Instead of logging into a separate SIMnet website, you will typically launch SIMnet activities directly from links within your Brightspace course.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. 1. Accessing SIMnet content from Brightspace:
  • Log in to Brightspace: Go to your institution's Brightspace login page (https://brightspace.utrgv.edu/d2l/home) and log in with your usual credentials.
  • Navigate to Your Course: Enter the specific Brightspace course that uses SIMnet.
  • Find SIMnet Links: Your instructor will likely place SIMnet links within the "Content" section of your Brightspace course. They might also be located in "Assignments," "Quizzes," or other modules. Look for links clearly labeled as SIMnet activities (e.g., "SIMnet: Word Chapter 1 SIMbook," "Excel Project 2," "SIMnet Midterm Exam").
  • Launch SIMnet: Click directly on the SIMnet activity link within Brightspace.
  • First-Time Access: The very first time you click a SIMnet link in Brightspace, you might be asked to:
    • Accept McGraw Hill's terms of service.
    • Register an access code (if required and not purchased via the bookstore/inclusive access).
    • Link your existing McGraw Hill account or create a new one (follow the on-screen prompts carefully). This usually pairs your Brightspace account with your McGraw Hill identity for seamless access later.
    • SIMnet should then launch, often in a new browser tab or window.
  1. 2. Completing Assignments:
  • Launch from Brightspace: Always start by clicking the specific assignment link within your Brightspace course content area. This ensures your work is properly tracked and grades sync back.
  • Work in SIMnet: The assignment will open within the McGraw Hill SIMnet platform (in the new tab/window). Complete the required reading, activities, project tasks, or exam questions directly within this SIMnet environment.
  • Submit in SIMnet: Follow the submission instructions within the SIMnet window. This might involve clicking a "Submit," "Submit for Grading," or similar button inside the SIMnet activity.
  • Close SIMnet: Once you have successfully submitted your work in SIMnet and received confirmation there, you can usually close the SIMnet browser tab or window.
  1. 3. Checking Your Grades:
  • Grades Sync to Brightspace: After you complete and submit an assignment in SIMnet, your grade should automatically be sent back to the Brightspace gradebook.
  • Check Brightspace Grades: To view your score, navigate to the "Grades" section within your Brightspace course.
  • Sync Delay: Please note that there can sometimes be a delay (from a few minutes up to several hours) between completing the work in SIMnet and the grade appearing in your Brightspace grade book.

Troubleshooting Common Integration Issues:

  • • Pop-up Blockers: SIMnet often requires pop-up windows. If an activity doesn't launch, check your browser's pop-up blocker settings and ensure you allow pop-ups from both your Brightspace site and mcgrawhill.com / simnetonline.com.
  • • Browser Issues: For the best experience, use an up-to-date version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. If you encounter loading errors, blank screens, or buttons not working:
    • Try clearing your browser's cache and cookies.
    • Ensure your browser meets SIMnet's system requirements ([Search for and Insert Link to Official SIMnet System Requirements Page Here]).
  • • Broken Links: If clicking a SIMnet link in Brightspace results in an error message (e.g., "Configuration Error," "Page Not Found"), notify your instructor immediately. They may need to reconfigure the link.
  • • Grades Not Appearing: If your grade hasn't synced to the Brightspace gradebook after 24 hours, contact your instructor first. They can investigate if there's a sync issue specific to the course or assignment.
  • • Account Linking/Login Issues: If you have trouble during the initial account linking process or subsequent logins via Brightspace, refer to any on-screen help prompts or contact McGraw Hill Support directly.

Additional Resources:

Support:

For additional support, contact the COLTT Help Desk at 956-665-5327 or 956-882-6792.

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