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To ensure a smooth and successful experience using Brightspace and other supported technologies at UTRGV, students must meet the following technical requirements.
Individual instructors may require additional tools based on course needs.
Technical Requirements
Recommended Hardware
Students should have access to a personal computer with:
- Operating System: Windows 10 or newer / Current macOS
- Processor: 2 GHz or faster
- Memory: 8 GB RAM recommended (4 GB minimum)
- Storage: At least 20 GB of free space
- Monitor Resolution: 1024 × 768 or higher
- Internet Connection: High-speed broadband (cable, fiber, or DSL)
Systems older than 3–4 years may experience performance issues with video, quizzes, and interactive tools.
Supported Browsers (Latest Version Recommended)
For best performance, use the most recent version of:
Disable pop-up blockers for the Brightspace domain to avoid issues accessing quizzes, videos, and external tools.
Mobile Devices & Tablets
Brightspace supports access on:
| Platform | Apple® Safari® | Google® Chrome™ | Microsoft® Edge | Mozilla® Firefox® |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple® iOS® for iPhone® and iPad® | Yes | Not Applicable | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Android™ OS for Android phones and tablets | Not Applicable | Yes | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
Additional Hardware
Depending on your course, you may need:
- Speakers or headphones
- Microphone
- Webcam
- Scanner or smartphone camera
Required & Recommended Software
Students should install:
- Microsoft Office 365 (available through My.UTRGV.edu, selecting Office 365 under applications)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader ( Adobe Reader latest version)
- Updated antivirus software
Technical Skills Expectations
Students should be comfortable with:
- Navigating Brightspace
- Sending emails with attachments
- Uploading assignments in Word or PDF format
- Downloading and installing software
- Participating in virtual meetings
Accessibility Tools: Ally
Brightspace includes Ally, which allows students to download course materials in alternative accessible formats.
- Mobile-friendly HTML
- Audio (mp3)
- ePub
- Electronic Braille
- Beeline Reader
- OCRd PDF
- Microsoft Immersive Reader
- Translated versions
To download an alternative format:
- Select a document in your course module.
- Click Alternative Formats.
- Choose your preferred format.
Accessibility and Privacy
Below you will find the accessibility and privacy policies of the supported technologies utilized.
| Software | Privacy Policy | Accessibility Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Brightspace | ||
| Ally | ||
| H5P | ||
| Microsoft Office | ||
| Panopto | ||
| ReadSpeaker | ||
| Respondus 4.0 | ||
| Respondus LockDown Browser | ||
| Respondus Monitor | ||
| SoftChalk | ||
| Top Hat | ||
| Turning Point | ||
| TurnitIn | ||
| YouTube | ||
|
Zoom |
UTRGV is committed to providing an inclusive and secure learning environment. The third-party tools purchased by our department and integrated into our learning management system (LMS) are selected with consideration for both accessibility and the protection of your privacy. It is UTRGV’s IT Assessment policy that all technologies purchased must meet accessibility standards. During the evaluation of the product, their privacy policies are carefully reviewed to ensure that your data is handled responsibly.
If you experience an accessibility barrier, please notify your instructor so appropriate accommodations can be provided.
Student Confidentiality (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.
Under FERPA, students have the right to:
-
Inspect and review their education records
-
Request corrections to inaccurate records
-
Provide written consent before personal information is released
For more information, visit the UTRGV FERPA webpage.
Getting Support
For technical support, contact:
- Phone - Call us anytime for 24/7 remote support:
Brownsville Campus: 956-882-6792
Edinburg Campus: 956-665-5327 - On Campus
Brownsville Campus: Casa Bella (BCASA) 613
Edinburg Campus: Marialice Shary Shivers (EMASS) 3.142 - Submit a Ticket Online: Visit Ask COLTT for support.
Browse our Knowledge Base articles for helpful guides, documentation, and Brightspace Community Learner Resources.