Relevant to: students
This article contains information considered accurate at the time of publishing. Technology updates, changes in University security practices, policies and procedures may effect the information in this article - updates to articles are scheduled on a periodic basis and will address any required changes.
Introduction
The instant messaging tool in Brightspace is a great way for students to quickly communicate with instructors and classmates in real-time.
Accessing the Instant Messaging Tool in Brightspace
Above the navigation bar at the top of every page, locate the Message Alerts Icon (shaped like an envelope) and click on it. You will have the option of sending an instant message or an email. Click Instant Message to open a new window where you can:
- View and sort current read and unread messages.
- Search for and add or remove users, friends, classmates, or your instructors.
- If you have more than one course, click on Classlist and select the view option to switch between courses.
Use The Settings Option to Filter and Sort Different Instant Messaging tabs.
Within the instant messages window, click on the cog (looks like a gear) in the upper right corner to set differing instant messaging options. From this window you can:
- Set your view preferences
- Use the Friends List Filter to toggle between friends who are online, or offline or to display your friends list altogether regardless of availability.
- Use the inbox filter to sort messages by sent date, first or last name.
- The Friends filter sorts messages by first and last name.
- Classlist filters messages with Sort by Last name and Sort by First name.