University of Southern California to Transition from Blackboard by 2024: Examining the Future of Online Learning Platforms in Higher Education

Has Blackboard earned a failing grade?

Introduction

The University of Southern California (USC) recently announced that it will be transitioning from Blackboard, its current primary learning system, to a new learning management system called Brightspace. This decision was made after an intensive review of other applications and platforms that offer online classroom services. Complaints from both students and teachers about Blackboard‘s functions, design, and potential impact on teachers’ creative processes have contributed to this transition. While some students and faculty are eagerly awaiting the switch, others are apprehensive about having to learn a new system.

The Problems with Blackboard

Blackboard‘s design and functionality have been a constant source of frustration for both faculty and students at USC. Professor Alan Mittelstaedt, who teaches journalism, has expressed dissatisfaction with the platform throughout his teaching career. He finds that Blackboard‘s interface is sterile and corporate, which hinders his ability to engage with students and foster creative thinking. Mittelstaedt believes that Blackboard‘s predetermined grading system, which relies on percentage formulas, is better suited for more objective subjects like mathematics rather than journalism, where subjective evaluation is crucial. He argues that this grading system sends the wrong message to students and does not align with the nature of the discipline.

Students at USC have also voiced concerns about Blackboard‘s system. A petition calling on the university to switch to a different online classroom service received 109 signatures out of the original goal of 200. Many students, like Carrie Zhu, a sophomore studying public relations and business, struggle to navigate Blackboard, which has adversely affected their grades. Lack of guidance and training on how to use the platform adds to the frustration. Past students have taken to social media platforms like Reddit to vent their grievances, with many echoing the sentiment that Blackboard is outdated and barely functional.

The Transition to Brightspace

The decision to switch to Brightspace was based on its user-friendly design, robust accessibility standards, and strong customer support offerings. USC believes that Brightspace will provide a more intuitive and efficient online learning experience for both faculty and students. Brightspace will be implemented in two phases: Phase 1 will begin in Summer 2024, and Phase 2 will be completed in Fall 2024. The university has formed the Learning Management Assessment Committee to oversee the transition process and ensure a smooth shift from Blackboard to Brightspace.

Faculty and Student Perspectives

Opinions among faculty and students about the transition vary. Some faculty members, like Professor Mittelstaedt, welcome the switch and believe it will lead to improved teaching and learning experiences. They are hopeful that Brightspace’s user-friendly features and enhanced support will address the limitations they encountered with Blackboard. However, other faculty members, like Professor Rami Kabbani, who teaches mechanical engineering, have had no issues with Blackboard and express concern about having to learn a new system. While they acknowledge the potential benefits of Brightspace, they worry about the potential flaws and the need to adapt to a new platform.

Similarly, students have mixed emotions about the transition. Those who have struggled with Blackboard, like Carrie Zhu, are optimistic that Brightspace will be easier to navigate and contribute to their academic success. However, other students, like Rami Kabbani, are apprehensive about having to familiarize themselves with a new system. Their main concern is that any potential flaws in Brightspace may negatively impact their online learning experience.

Editorial and Advice

The decision to transition from Blackboard to Brightspace at USC reflects the university’s commitment to continually improving the online learning experience for its students and faculty. While the transition may introduce some temporary challenges, it is ultimately a positive step towards a more user-friendly and efficient platform.

To ensure the success of this transition, USC should prioritize effective communication and provide comprehensive training and support to faculty and students. Clear instructions and guidance on using Brightspace should be made available well in advance of the transition. Faculty should be encouraged to share best practices and lessons learned to enhance the learning experience for all users.

Additionally, USC should closely monitor feedback from faculty and students during and after the transition period. This feedback will help identify any issues or areas for improvement in Brightspace and allow for timely adjustments to be made. Regular assessments and check-ins with faculty and students will also facilitate a smooth transition and address any concerns that may arise.

In conclusion, while Blackboard has faced criticism for its design and functionality, USC’s decision to switch to Brightspace offers a promising opportunity for enhancing the online learning experience. By addressing the shortcomings of Blackboard and providing comprehensive support during the transition, USC can ensure a successful implementation of Brightspace and create a more user-friendly and engaging learning environment for faculty and students.