Overview
D2L Brightspace is the official Learning Management System (LMS) used at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU).
D2L Brightspace allows you to:
- Organize and manage course materials
- Communicate with students
- Post and manage grades
- Support online, blended, and face‑to‑face instruction
The D2L portal lets you view and manage all of your courses in one place during a single login session.
Getting Started with D2L Brightspace
To access D2L Brightspace, you will need:
- Your StarID
- Your StarID password
After logging in, take time to explore the system and become familiar with its tools and features. D2L Brightspace supports a variety of instructional approaches, including:
- Online courses
- Blended or hybrid courses
- Enhanced face‑to‑face courses
Instructional Support and Training
The Center for Learning and Teaching (COLT) provides support to instructors using D2L Brightspace.
COLT services include:
- Workshops and training sessions
- One‑on‑one consultations
- Guidance on using D2L Brightspace tools
- Support for online course design
- Academic technology assistance
- Media and instructional resources
- Administrative support for academic program development
Getting Help
If you would like help learning how to use D2L Brightspace or want instructional support:
- Visit the COLT website to schedule a consultation
- Email colt@smsu.edu for assistance
COLT staff are available to help instructors at all experience levels, from beginners to advanced users.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't I log in to my D2L Brightspace account?
Make sure that your starid password has not expired. Resetting your Star ID password will fix most log in issues.
What devices can I use to access D2L Brightspace?
To access D2L Brightspace you can use almost any type of device.
I am unable to see my assigned semester courses in D2L Brightspace.
Firstly, ensure you have been assigned as the instructor of record for the course by checking the class schedule. Note: it takes up to 15 minutes for courses to appear in your account after you are officially assigned. Here is a quick guide on how to pin your semester courses. If you still can’t locate your course(s), then call or e-mail the Technology Resource Center Helpdesk.
How can I view my D2L Brightspace classes in the My Course Widget?
How can I pin classes in the Course Selector menu in the minibar?
Please refer to this article for instructions on the course widget and selector.
How can I copy material or learning activities from a previous course into my D2L Brightspace course shell for this or next semester?
Please refer to this article for instructions on copying previous course material.
How do I set up my D2L Brightspace course grade book to import students final grades into ISRS using the ISRS Grade and LDA Entry?
Faculty member have the ability to pull released grades they have entered for their students in D2L Brightspace by the click of a button, into the Grade and LDA Entry application for the purpose of final posting of grades.
You may also refer to these articles for further information:
D2L Setup for importing grades
Open for saving draft
Open for posting grades
How do I sign up for notifications in D2L Brightspace?
It is recommended that you sign up for notifications so you can always be organized and up to dates on classes, assignments, quizzes etc.
Minnesota State D2L Brightspace Support SharePoint site provides instructors with knowledge articles that includes commonly asked questions, how-to steps and best practices. The D2L Support site requires your StarID credentials to log into Office 365 SharePoint.