Keep navigation simple – students should find important content in 3 clicks or fewer.
Use consistent naming conventions for files and folders (e.g., “Week 1 Lecture Slides” rather than just “Lecture Slides”).
Create a welcome announcement with course navigation instructions.
Add your contact information prominently on the course homepage.
Content Management
Chunk content into manageable sections rather than uploading lengthy documents.
Use the built-in content editor rather than uploading Word documents when possible.
Preview your course as a student to ensure all content is visible and accessible.
Upload files in standard formats (PDF, DOCX, PPTX, MP4) for best compatibility.
Include alternative text for images to improve accessibility.
Course Management
Assessment Strategies
Create question pools for randomized quizzes to reduce academic dishonesty.
Set up automatic grade release for objective assessments.
Use rubrics for consistent grading of subjective assignments.
Set clear due dates that appear on the calendar automatically.
Consider using “Draft” mode when building assessments to prevent premature student access.
Communication Tools
Use announcements for time-sensitive information.
Create discussion forums for class participation and Q&A.
Enable course messages for private student communications.
Schedule regular virtual office hours using Blackboard Collaborate Ultra.
Gradebook Management
Set up your gradebook early with proper categories and weighting.
Enter zeros for missed assignments rather than leaving them blank.
Use the “Needs Grading” feature to quickly find new submissions.
Provide substantive feedback using text, audio, or video options.
Efficiency, Support & Student Success
Time-Saving Features
Reuse content from previous courses with the “Copy Course” feature.
Schedule release dates for content to automatically appear to students.
Use batch download for assignments instead of opening each one individually.
Create assignment templates that can be reused throughout the course.
Troubleshooting Tips
Clear your browser cache if experiencing display issues.
Use Chrome or Firefox for best compatibility.
Contact IT support early when experiencing technical problems.
Document steps that led to any errors to help support staff troubleshoot.
Keep copies of important content on your local computer as backup.
Student Success Strategies
Use the Performance Dashboard to identify struggling students early.
Create “Getting Started” modules with technology requirements and navigation guidance.
Provide sample assignments so students understand expectations.
Use conditional release to ensure students master prerequisites before advancing.
Send encouraging messages to students who show improvement.
Simplicity and consistency are key to an effective Blackboard Ultra course. Focus on clear organization, regular communication, and thoughtful assessment design.
Created by:
Bronwyn Keefe, PhD, MPH, MSW
Assistant Dean, Workforce and Professional Development & Research Associate Professor
Research Assistant Professor
Director, Center for Aging & Disability Education & Research (CADER) & Network for Professional Education
Coordinator, Aging Specialization and Lowy-GEM Program
School of Social Work
Karen Jacobs, OT, EdD, OTR, CPE, FAOTA
Associate Dean, Digital Learning and Innovation at the Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Clinical Professor
Program Director, Online Post-professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) Program
Department of Occupational Therapy
Lyndsey McMahan, PhD, LCSW
Assistant Dean, Teaching and Innovation
School of Social Work
If you’re looking for more Ultra support and resources, continue checking out our Ultra Starter Kit!
Setup & Design
Course Management
Efficiency, Support & Student Success
Bronwyn Keefe, PhD, MPH, MSW
Karen Jacobs, OT, EdD, OTR, CPE, FAOTA
Lyndsey McMahan, PhD, LCSW