Learning management system (LMS)

Brightspace is the online learning management system used by Athabasca University (AU). It organizes and presents learning content and activities in an intuitive interface that tracks learning progress and facilitates communication between academic staff and learners.

All AU students have access to Learning in Brightspace, a course that will provide you with an overview of how to use Brightspace.

Moodle is AU's former LMS. If you still have courses in Moodle, refer to Moodle orientation for students.

Supported browsers

It is recommended that you use the latest version of a supported browser to access Brightspace.

Accessing your course(s) - items to consider:

• Check your course syllabus to confirm course availability and LMS delivery details.
• Early access to courses (individualized study):
  You may have access to your course as early as the day after your course registration is processed. Please note that access to course content and academic support is limited prior to your contract start date. For example, you may not have access to quizzes, be able to submit assignments, post to discussion topics, or receive academic support until your official course contract start date.

Having trouble accessing your course in Brightspace?

If you’re unable to log into Brightspace, please try these steps:

1. Check the My Courses channel in myAU to confirm your course registration(s). Access to Brightspace requires active course registration.
2. Ensure that your AU Microsoft Office365 account is activated and that you are using your @learn.athabascau.ca email address to log in.

If steps 1 and 2 do not resolve your issue, contact the Information Centre.

Having trouble accessing a resource in Brightspace?

If you're able to access your course in Brightspace but are having trouble opening a specific resource (e.g., a file, link, quiz, or activity), here’s what to do:

1. Try a different browser or clear your cache
   Technical issues can sometimes be resolved by switching to a different browser (e.g., Chrome or Firefox) or clearing your browser's cache.
2. Consult with your academic support at AU
   Sometimes, course content may not be published yet, or there may be restrictions based on dates or completion of previous tasks. Your AU academic support can clarify this.
3. Still need help?
   If the issue persists and the content should be available, please contact the Service Desk at helpdesk@athabascau.ca or call the toll-free number with the following details:
   • Student ID
   • Course name and code
   • The specific resource you're trying to access
   • Any error message you receive (a screenshot is helpful)