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6.4. Getting Started Widget
Getting Started Widget
The Getting Started Widget is a customization developed by D2L for Brightspace designed to focus on communication with students when they log into a course. This widget does not require any unique setup by the instructor. The functionality is dependent on the content of the Getting Started module in the course, which typically includes a Message from the Instructor and Course Expectations and any other file included in that module.
*Please note, even HIDDEN FILES will populate in the Getting Started Widget. (They are hidden in the module.) Use submodules to provide additional information in this module. Read more at the end of the tutorial.
When students log into the course, the widget will open automatically to the first page of the Getting Started content. Choosing Next prompts the next file to load. Scrolling may be necessary for longer pages.
Students will continue to choose Next until the last file is presented. The last file offers the option to Dismiss the widget. Choosing Dismiss will stop the initiation of the widget at the login to the course.
Students can always see the content again even if they have previously dismissed the widget. Students will see the blue Getting Started button/bar above the announcements section and may choose Getting Started to run the widget. (Of course, they can see the module under the content tab as well.)
Submodules and External Learning Tools
Submodules in the Getting Started module will not populate in the widget. If you have content such as, an External Learning Tool, that needs to be placed early in the Table of Contents, then use a submodule folder for those items within the Getting Started module. Students will see the items when they check course content, but the submodule content will not interfere with the widget.