Recent Updates

This page provides recent updated features in key areas for meeting instructor needs in Blackboard. Below are the categories of updates. The latest updates are closest to the top of each category:

Instructional Design Support

AI Design Assistant - Language Selector

Instructors can now generate modules in any language of their choice. Instructors who teach modern languages can benefit greatly from this feature. See how to access the Language Selector below:

AI Design Assistant - Modules

You can now use several AI design tools to support your course building. Ultra AI design tools can now create modules. Modules created have a title, a brief description and option for images. For more details on using AI Design Assistant for generating modules click on this link .

Tests and Assignments

Print Test Item Option

Tests and other assessment items can now be printed! Check out steps to the print option below:

Return a True/False Answer to an Unanswered State - Students

Instructors, please note that students can now clear their answers for True/False items.

Duplicate Test Question Items

You can duplicate questions with the new Duplicate function/feature option. This feature is useful when creating match-item questions.

Weighted Calculations

You can now see how your assignments and other test items are calculated.

The image below shows how your overall total or category is distributed proportionally. A category with multiple items will inform you on the distribution of the percentages.

The image below shows how your overall total or category is distributed equally. A category with multiple items will not show a break down in percentages of items.

Reuse Questions when Building a Form

If you have already created one or more forms, you can reuse those questions when building a new Form using the Reuse Question function.

Multiple Attempts for Forms

Instructors can now grant multiple attempts to forms for Groups.

Flexible Grading

Need Grading Filter Option

Instructors can now filter out graded items pushing ungraded items to be more visible for grading.

Gradebook Indicator

Students can see Gradebook indicators of any changes or updates relating to their grades in the main navigation bar.

Students can also notice the Late labels when they click on the Gradebook indicator to reveal their itemized Gradebook.

Weighted Calculation Removal of 0% From Excluded Items

The image below shows the before use of 0% per item at excluded items (noted in purple slashed icon Ø).

The image below shows the updated version where the 0% per item is removed.

Private Grader Notes

Instructors can now add a private note while grading students' work. Private Grader Notes can serve as reminders and/or highlight particular events surrounding the grade of a student.

Image below shows saved private grade notes with the image and role of the instructor.

Instructors can also access saved grade notes from the Grades page, by first selecting Gradebook and then selecting the assessment item and clicking on the grade for the student. Access is also available from the Submission page.

Two-Panel Grading View

Instructors now have access to two panels, one on both sides, to input grade and grade feedback.

Per Question Feedback

Instructors can now provide feedback by questions. This allows instructors to improve their learner-centered approach by giving more customized responses to students.

Instructors can also hide the feedback from themselves as they move forward to make other feedback.

Override Final Grade Function

Instructors can now make changes to posted final grades by using the Override Final Grade function. Click on the ellipsis (3 dots) on the right of the grade pill and select the override function from the drop menu list.