Introduction:
The Groups tool in Brightspace lets students collaborate in smaller teams within a course. Groups may be used for projects, discussions, or shared assignments. Each group can have its own workspace, including a Group Locker where members can upload and share files. The Group Locker functions as a shared folder accessible only to group members and the instructor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Click each panel below to view:
Viewing Groups & Accessing Group Content
WARNING:
If you do not see the “Groups” link under the Tools tab in your course, please contact our office for assistance.
If the Groups link is visible but no groups have been created, please reach out to your instructor, as group setup is managed at the course level.
- 1. On your course's homepage, go to Tools on the navigation bar and select Groups.
- 2. On the My Groups page, you will see the following options:
- [a] Available – View and join self-enroll groups (if available).
- [b] Groups – Click the group name to open group details.
- [c] Members – Click the number to view the list of group members.
- [d] Assignments – Access group assignments and feedback.
- [e] Discussions – View and participate in group discussion boards.
- [f] Locker – Upload and view shared group files.
- [g] Email – Use the email icon to send messages to your group members.
- [h] Actions – If permitted, you can unenroll from your group.
Using Group Lockers
- 1. In your Groups workplace, click on the [a] Group Files (Group Locker link).
- 2. Once redirected, you see the following options [a]:
- Upload Files – Upload files such as Word, PDF, HTML, images, or presentations.
- New File – Create a new HTML page directly in the locker.
- New Folder – Create folders to organize files.
- Email Group Members – Notify members of changes or updates.
- 3. View other options [b]:
- Edit – Bulk edit file or folder names and descriptions.
- Move – Bulk move files/folders to another location.
- Download – Bulk download items from the locker.
- Delete – Bulk delete files/folders.
- • Per-item actions (via dropdown arrow) [c]:
- View contents or open in a new window.
- Move, Edit, or Delete individual items.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- • Can’t find your group?
- Navigate to Tools → Groups in your course navbar.
- If you don’t see the Groups option, your instructor may not have enabled groups yet or you may not be enrolled in one. Contact your instructor for clarification.
- • Group locker not visible?
- Not all groups have a locker enabled. This is set by your instructor. If you don’t see it in your group workspace, check with your instructor.
- • Locker files not loading or opening?
- Try clearing your browser cache or switching to Chrome or Firefox.
- Confirm that your internet connection is stable and that the file type is supported on your device.
- • Uploaded a file, but it’s missing?
- Ensure you clicked Upload and then Add before leaving the locker. If the process was interrupted, the file will not save.
- Refresh the locker page and check if the file appears in the list.
- • Permission issues when viewing or uploading files
- Locker permissions are set at the group level. If you cannot add or see files, your instructor may have restricted permissions.
Additional Resources:
FAQ Section:
- • Q: Where do I find my group locker?
- A: Once you’re enrolled in a group, go to Tools → Groups → Group Locker. You’ll see all shared files and upload options there.
- • Q: Can anyone outside my group see the files in my locker?
- A: No. Only members of your assigned group and your instructor can access your group locker.
- • Q: Is there a file size limit for the group locker?
- A: Yes, file size limits are set by Brightspace. If your file is too large, compress it (e.g., into a
.zip) or ask your instructor for an alternative submission method.
- • Q: Can I delete files from the locker?
- A: This depends on permissions. In most cases, all group members can delete files, but instructors may restrict this option.
- • Q: What happens if two people upload files with the same name?
- A: The most recent file will overwrite the older one. To avoid this, use descriptive filenames (e.g., “Group1_Draft1_Alice.docx”).