Alec Rodriguez EDINBURG – UTRGV has used Blackboard as its main learning management system for students and faculty over the last 10 years, however the university switched to Brightspace during the summer.
Francisco Garcia, the Center for Online Learning and Teaching Technology Director, explained the contract with Blackboard ended and many faculty members suggested other programs.
He said that in 2024, some faculty and students participated in demos for three learning Management systems before a committee made the change. Those systems included Blackboard, Canva Learning, and Brightspace.
“The university, especially faculty, approached us and decided to try new other methods because, again, the market was growing and there was more opportunity, now based,” said Garcia.
Students returned to campus in June with a new system to learn and navigate. Students like Senior Melanie Marez got to use Brightspace in the summer.
“I feel like I have a little extra, like advantage because I kind of know this program already, but I really like it,” Marez said.
Alvaro Castro, visual communication design freshman, said Brightspace reminded him of a previous LMS he used in high school.
“They used Schoology so, I kind of like it because it has similar features. You can see your upcoming assignments. I’m very accustomed to it,” said Castro. If you need help with Brightspace, COLTT has options for you online and in person. COLTT offices are located on
Brownsville Campus: Casa Bella 613
Edinburg Campus: Maryalice Shary Shivers 3.142
