Introduction:
Brightspace is UTRGV’s official digital learning environment, supported by the Center for Online Learning and Teaching Technology (COLTT).
The information below will help you navigate your courses and get the most out of your online learning experience at UTRGV.
Getting Started with Brightspace
Whether you're new to Brightspace or just need a refresher, this article will guide you through accessing and customizing your Brightspace experience: Brightspace for Beginners
Common Troubleshooting Steps
Many students contact support for help with logging in, accessing content, or submitting assignments/discussions. Before submitting a ticket, try the steps below—you might be able to solve it yourself!
- 1.Check for Device Update
- Windows: Windows logo > Settings > [right side] Windows Update > “Check for Updates”
- iPad: Settings > General > Software Update [enable automatic updates in “Automatic Updates”]
- Mac: Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update
- Chromebook: Select the time in the bottom right > Select Settings > Select About ChromeOS in the bottom left > Find your Chromebook's operating system version under "Google ChromeOS" > Select Check for updates > If an update is available, it will download automatically > When the download is complete, select Restart to finish the update
- 2. Access Brightspace via Google Chrome (recommended web browser)
- 3. Enable Third-Party Cookies
- 4.Check for Chrome Update (different for Chromebook)
- Chrome App > three dots > Help > About Google Chrome (does automatically)
- iPad: Open the App Store > Tap Profile in the top right > Scroll to "Available Updates" > Search for Chrome > If Chrome is listed, tap Update to install
- 5. Delete Browsing Data
- 6. Cross-Site Tracking for iPad
- Settings > Chrome > “Turn on Allow Cross-Website Tracking” (make sure this is off)
Brightspace Support Resources:
Additional Resources:
FAQ Section:
I'm having trouble logging into Brightspace. What should I check first?
- • Make sure you're using your UTRGV email and credentials.
- • Try accessing Brightspace using Google Chrome.
- • Clear your browser cache or try an Incognito window.
- • Check your device for software updates (Windows, Mac, iPad, Chromebook).
My content won’t load, or I see an error. What do I do?
- • Try a different browser (Chrome is recommended).
- • Ensure third-party cookies are enabled.
- • Clear your browsing data and refresh the page.
- • On iPad, turn off "Allow Cross-Website Tracking" under Settings > Chrome.
How do I fix quiz issues like freezing, locking up, or being kicked out?
- • Use a laptop or desktop when possible, not a mobile device.
- • Avoid using multiple tabs or sessions—one Brightspace window at a time.
- • Stay active during the quiz (click "Save Answer" periodically).
- • Let your instructor know right away if you're disconnected.
I can’t submit my assignment or discussion post—what now?
- • Confirm the due date and availability are still active.
- • Make sure you’re uploading the correct file type.
- • Use Google Chrome and try clearing your cache if needed.
- • Contact COLTT or your instructor if the issue continues.
Where can I get support after hours?
- • Use Brightspace Lumi Chat (24/7) for instant help
- When calling D2L for Brightspace support, provide the User ID from the User Information Widget on the homepage of Brightspace.
- • Visit the Ask COLTT client portal to submit a ticket
- Any ticket submitted after 5 PM or on weekends will be viewed during our office hours (Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM)
My instructor told me to use Respondus LockDown Browser. What’s that?
- • It’s a secure browser required for some quizzes/exams.
- • You can download the Respondus LockDown Application from the Brightspace homepage under Student Tech Downloads or directly in your Respondus quiz/exam
- • You must launch the quiz inside Brightspace