Brightspace Course Syllabus Editing for Educators

Editing Your Brightspace Course Syllabus

Note: If you do not see the syllabus template in your Brightspace course, please contact edtech@okanagan.bc.ca for support.

This guide walks educators through editing and customizing the Brightspace course syllabus using the Okanagan College course template. Learn how to update syllabus content, edit accordion sections, replace banner images, manage tables, add files and media, and publish a polished, accessible syllabus experience for students.

  • Edit syllabus text and headings
  • Replace the syllabus banner image
  • Update accordion sections and tables
  • Add videos, links, and course files
  • Use accessible heading structures
  • Publish and organize the syllabus for students

Watch the Video

Watch this walkthrough to learn how to edit and customize your Brightspace course syllabus.

Step 1: Open the Course Syllabus

Navigate to the syllabus page within your Brightspace course.

  1. Open your Brightspace course.
  2. Go to Content.
  3. Locate the syllabus in the Welcome Module.
  4. Select the syllabus page to open it.
Instructional Tip: Place key course information such as communication expectations, participation requirements, and support resources near the top of the syllabus so students can easily find important details early in the term.

Step 2: Edit the Banner Image

Update the syllabus banner image to personalize your course.

  1. Select the existing banner image.
  2. Choose the Insert Image button from the editor toolbar.
  3. Upload a new image from your computer.
  4. Add descriptive alternative text.
  5. Select OK.
Instructional Tip: Use a welcoming and course-relevant image to help build course identity and create a more engaging first impression for students.

Step 3: Edit Text and Headings

You can directly edit syllabus text, headings, and formatting.

  • Update course information and instructor details.
  • Use Heading 1 and Heading 2 styles appropriately.
  • Use paragraph formatting for standard text.
  • Ensure content is easy to scan and read.
Instructional Tip: Accessible heading structures improve navigation for screen readers and help all learners quickly locate information within the syllabus.

Step 4: Edit Accordion Sections

Accordion sections organize content into expandable panels for easier student navigation.

  1. Select the accordion block.
  2. Choose the Edit button.
  3. Update accordion titles and content.
  4. Add or remove accordion sections as needed.
  5. Use Preview to review the layout.
Instructional Tip: Break long syllabus information into smaller accordion sections to reduce cognitive overload and make policies easier for students to review.

Step 5: Add Videos, Files, and Links

Enhance the syllabus with additional course resources and media.

  • Use Add Stuff within the accordion editor.
  • Insert video notes or welcome videos.
  • Link to course files and external resources.
  • Add supporting documents for students.
Instructional Tip: A short welcome video in the syllabus can help establish instructor presence and improve student connection at the beginning of the course.

Step 6: Edit Tables and Course Schedules

Use tables to organize schedules, assessments, and course components.

  1. Select a table to access editing tools.
  2. Add or remove rows and columns.
  3. Update dates, topics, and activities.
  4. Use Table Properties for formatting.
Instructional Tip: Keep schedules concise and clearly structured so students can easily track important dates and expectations throughout the course.

Step 7: Publish and Organize the Syllabus

After editing, organize and publish the syllabus for students.

  1. Rearrange content sections as needed.
  2. Delete outdated syllabus pages.
  3. Rename the updated syllabus.
  4. Make the syllabus visible to students.
  5. Select Save and Close.
Instructional Tip: A consistent syllabus structure across courses can reduce student confusion and improve navigation throughout Brightspace.

Need Help?

For support with Brightspace course design or syllabus editing, contact the Educational Technology team:

edtech@okanagan.bc.ca

For general Teaching and Learning Innovations support:

tli@okanagan.bc.ca