Definition of a D2L Merged Course

• On request, the D2L administrator can combine the class rosters of separate sections of a course into the same D2L course shell by merging the course shells together.
• The D2L Classlist tool automatically keeps the rosters of students names separated by section.
• Several considerations should go into the decision to request a merged course - refer to the information below.
  

Why request a D2L Merged Course?

Two example scenarios:

1.  If you have a cross-listed course that is listed in multiple departments (i.e. ANTH/SOC/WMST), you should consider a merged course in D2L Brightspace.
2. If you will be teaching three sections of the same course, using the same delivery method, in the same start and end timeframe, (i.e, FA24 PSYC 1000 10, 11, & 21) a merged course would manage content for all three courses in a single course shell. This would save you time.

Pros of a merged course:

1. You can upload content into only one D2L course shell.
2. You will not need to use the "Copy" process into a separate D2L course each time you create or need to share a new item in D2L.
3. For instructors who use complex designs such as OER (Open Education Resources), a merged course can streamline the technical design and delivery tasks when teaching in D2L. 

Cons of a merged course:

1. You'll need to be diligent about using "Release conditions" or "Manage Restrictions" for items that are only needed for specific sections.
2. You'll need to be diligent about separating students into their respective Sections for certain types of interaction in order to preserve best teaching practices.
3. Courses of unlike delivery methods cannot be merged without dean approval; the criteria for dean approval is outlined in this webpage: Criteria for Merging Course Sections in D2L

FAQ's:

1. Will students see names and email address of students from different sections in the "Classlist" tool?

Answer: No. By default, students see only their own section's names in the Classlist tool.

2. Can I view each section of students separately in the gradebook, or other tools?

Answer: Yes! D2L can easily separate students by section throughout the tools in D2L. Look for the "View by" menu in places such as Grades, Quizzes, Discussions, etc. 

3. Can I make Announcements or other items that are only viewed by a single section?

Answer: Yes! Use the "Release Conditions" tool, which can be found throughout all D2L tools. From the "Condition type" menu, select "Classlist > Section enrollment", and then select the section number for which you'd like the item to be available.

4. Can I make Discussion topics separated by each course Section?

Answer: Yes! Use the "Manage Restrictions" option in your Discussion topic, which can be found in the Availability Dates & Conditions tile of your Discussion topic. Select Restrict topic and separate the threads and then select the Sections option. Select Add.

5. Can I create student groups so that students are only grouped together with other students from their own section?

Answer: Yes! When using the Communications > Groups tool and creating a new group category, use the "Restrict Enrollments to" option to select which section will be used to create the groups.

• For example in the screenshot below, only students in section 1000 06 will be separated into smaller groups.
• A category of groups can be created for each section within the merged course.

6. Should I let my students know that they are in a merged course?

Answer: If you require or allow interaction between students in different Sections, then yes. See more info below.

Student interaction between sections:

1. If your course design allows for visibility or interaction of students from multiple sections, then you are required to include a statement on your syllabus informing students of possible cross-section interaction. Refer to the sample syllabus statement below. Please use this or a similar statement in all merged courses with cross-section interaction. 

“Please note that Discussion boards or other group activities in D2L may include students who are registered in one of my other sections of this course. If you have any questions or concerns about this, please let me know.” 

2. Note: If a student tells you they are concerned about cross-section interaction in your merged course, consult with your academic dean or the Dean of Students. 

How do I request a merged course?

• Watch your email and/or D2L homepage announcement for each term's deadlines and instructions for requesting combined courses.
• Use this Merged Course Request Form