Bring Back Crtl+F Browser Search
I would like to request the restoration of the ability to use Ctrl+F to search within the gradebook and have the browser immediately navigate to the selected item.
The recent update appears to have removed this functionality, resulting in a significant decrease in the efficiency and usability of the gradebook. In my courses, students typically complete approximately 80 assignments per semester. As a result, quickly locating specific grade items is essential for effective course management. Without the ability to use the browser's native search function, navigating the gradebook has become considerably more time-consuming for both instructors and students.
Additionally, the introduction of the new arrow-based navigation system has slowed the process of moving through grade items and locating specific assignments. What was previously a quick and intuitive task now requires substantially more time and effort.
Ease of navigation is a critical component of the user experience, and the current implementation negatively impacts day-to-day workflow. If this issue cannot be addressed, I will need to evaluate alternative learning management systems, including Google Classroom, that better support efficient grade management.
Comments
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Hi @christopher.houghton@stonybrook.edu
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I understand how impactful this change is, especially when working with a large number of grade items.
The behaviour you’re experiencing is related to the recent updates to the Grades tool (released February 2026), which introduced a new table structure and navigation experience. As part of this update, the page now uses a different rendering approach, which can affect how browser-based tools like Ctrl+F interact with the content.
At this time, this is expected with the updated experience and is not something that can be reverted. The change was introduced to support improvements such as:
- Addressing long-standing issues within the Grades tool
- Improving accessibility and navigation
- Aligning the Grades experience with other areas of Brightspace
You can read more about these updates here: February 2026/20.26.02 - Brightspace
I understand your concern around efficiency, especially when managing a high volume of grade items, and your feedback about navigation and search is valid. While Ctrl+F may not behave as it did previously, a few options that may help in the meantime include:
- Using the left/right navigation arrows within the Gradebook
- Using Shift + scroll (or a two-finger horizontal swipe on a trackpad) to move across columns more quickly
I’ve also shared your feedback with your account team for visibility.
Thank you again for raising this,
Carolina A.
