Brightspace, a more modern system, is replacing Blackboard

In an effort to improve the learning experience, Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) has switched to Brightspace as its Learning Management System (LMS) for academic courses. From the educational technology company Desire2Learn, Brightspace is an online tool that allows students to view details on assignments, submit their work, engage in discussions, see their grades, and get feedback from instructors.

Brightspace replaces Blackboard as Saint Augustine’s LMS. Campus leaders said that the change should benefit students, teachers, administrators, and administrators.

“This new learning management system is more modern and will better help students keep track of academic success,” said Dr. Marcus H. Burgess, Interim President of Saint Augustine’s University. Dr. Burgess added that the new LMS is one of many improvements that have already been instituted or are in the works. “It’s all part of an effort to help students have an excellent on-campus experience.”

Valerie Evans, Director of Teaching, Learning, and Educational Technology, explained that Brightspace “has some cool features that Blackboard does not have. There will be a dramatic difference for students – they’ll have easier access to courses, grades, and a calendar. It will be a more intuitive experience for students.”

Improvements include audio and video options embedded throughout the system for students and instructors, an integrated early warning tool in the grade center, better graphics and a better dashboard all in a mobile-friendly environment, Ms. Evans said.

She said Brightspace offers robust student progress analytics for instructors. It even has advantages for administrators; Brightspace offers more macro-level analytics, allowing campus leaders to see department-level trends to determine where resources are most needed.

Dr. Janelle Jennings-Alexander, Ph.D., the Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs & Student Experience added: “Brightspace is going to allow us to improve the way we serve students, from how we identify their needs for academic support to how we access how effective we are as educators. We are also really excited about how we can measure and improve our learning outcomes through this system.”

Ms. Evans said Brightspace will continue one feature of Blackboard: free access to Cengage textbooks seamlessly through the learning management system.

Universities that have switched to Brightspace have concluded that it is easier to use than other LMS tools. In June 2024, a survey released by G2, a company involved in business software and service reviews, found that Brightspace was voted the easiest-to-use LMS.

Ms. Evans has led the campuswide effort to prepare students and faculty to use Brightspace. She is confident that SAU will be ready for classes to begin on Sept. 3. Faculty members underwent training in the new system over the summer and will continue professional development in Brightspace tools throughout the semester. Student support comes from multiple sources, including a self-paced orientation right in the Brightspace system and demonstrations from faculty.

This new partnership with Brightspace is just one way Saint Augustine’s University is evolving to meet the needs of its students and faculty.