In this first series of Brightspace tips, I want to introduce you to your support options to help you navigate the Brightspace platform.

The Brightspace Virtual Assistant:

The Brightspace Virtual Assistant is a 24/7 support tool that is integrated directly into the platform. It provides immediate access to help documentation, step-by-step guides, and video tutorials for all Brightspace users. You can also connect directly with live agents and open support tickets.

To access, select the speech bubble icon in the bottom right-hand corner of the page when you are logged into Brightspace.

1. You can select from one of the question topics available or simply type your question in the text box.
2. Type a Brightspace-related question into the text box and click Send.
3. Read the articles suggested based on the question asked; you can toggle between the two to preview what information is included in each.
   • Click Read Article to read the resource(s) in full screen within the widget.
   • Click the ← arrow button to return to the search results.
   • Click the Open in new tab button to view the resource in Community.

Not seeing the results, you want? Do one of the following:

1. Select Yes, I have another question to ask another question and receive additional help articles.
2. Select Ask the Community to be directed to Brightspace Community to post your question in a discussion forum and receive answers from other Community members.
3. Select Contact Support for further assistance. The following options appear:
   • Call us: users will be given the correct phone number for their organization.
   • Email us: a case will be created from the tool and will be sent to the D2L end user support team.
   • Chat with us: users can chat with a live D2L support agent while navigating through different areas of Brightspace.

Other support options and resources include:

The Knowledge Base:
Brightspace articles and how-to guides housed on the Missouri State website.

Brightspace Guided Training
Located on the institutional navigation bar when you first access Brightspace. The Brightspace Guided Training is a self-paced program that includes instructional videos and step-by-step walkthroughs for many of the features you will use as an instructor.

Brightspace Community
The Brightspace Community is a repository of resources for using Brightspace as well as opportunities to collaborate and network with other Brightspace members. You will need to create a free account to access many of the features available.

Brightspace Instructor Documentation
Included in the Brightspace Community, the instructor documentation contains detailed instructions for how to use the many Brightspace features and tools for instructors.