This article gives you an overview of Blackboard Ultra and explains the difference between Ultra and Original. The article also provides a link to help articles.

The Blackboard Ultra Migration Project

Blackboard, our virtual learning environment (VLE), is a core system used by students and staff across the University.  

Blackboard Original has been our platform for some time but, as we all know technology develops rapidly and it has been announced that this platform will no longer receive further developments. We are also aware that a significant amount of our courses are falling below accessibility standards, so change is essential.

Over the next three years (2023-2026), we aim to upgrade your Blackboard experience by migrating modules from our current VLE to the latest, more enhanced version of the platform, Blackboard Ultra.

To find more information about the project, please visit our Blackboard Ultra SharePoint site.

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Accessing an Ultra module in Blackboard

The way you access your modules will not change. You will access your modules by selecting 'courses' on the Blackboard Landing Page.

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How do I know if I am working on a Blackboard Original or Blackboard Ultra module?

Identifying module type on the Course Menu

You can see if your module is an Original or Ultra module from the Course Menu as follows:

1. Select Courses
2. Choose the hamburger menu (3 horizontal lines next to "Search your courses") and this will arrange your modules in a list

 
In a list view, you will notice that some modules have a coloured bar on the left of the module box, and others are grey:

• Original courses are grey
• Ultra courses have a coloured bar to the left in list view.

Blackboard Original modules have a grey bar to the left and state "Original Course View" next to the module name. 

Identify module type inside the module

When you have selected a module, the layout of Original and Blackboard are very different.

The easiest way to differentiate the module is to look at the landing page when the module is opened.

Original Module

Original modules:

• Open on the announcement page
• Have a layout with a left-hand menu on a black bar.

The image above shows the dashboard from a student account.

Ultra Module

Ultra modules:

• Open to the Course Content page
• Show a lefthand information menu for students 
• Show a navigation bar at the top of the page. 

The image above shows the dashboard from a student account.
 

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Early Adopters

Early Adopter Group - Overview

The Early Adopters group is an opportunity for staff and students to test, explore and provide feedback on the new platform, helping shape the transition to Blackboard Ultra. It allows our project team to work in partnership with a range of academic subject areas, gathering valuable information about what is involved in migrating courses.

From Semester 2 of this academic year (29 January 2024 to 15 June 2024), the Early Adopters group will migrate and deliver their module using Blackboard Ultra. This means that the lecturer of the module has chosen to deliver their module through the Ultra format

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Guidance and training for using Blackboard Ultra

If you're a staff member who is part of the Early Adopter programme you will receive training and support from our Learning Technologists.

Furthermore, from April this year, training and development opportunities will be provided, offering staff a variety of support, both online and in-person.

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What to do if you need help

If you are part of the Early Adopters programme and require help with Ultra, you can raise a ticket through this Fast Track Ticket. Each module delivered through Ultra should have this link available on its module page.

Our team is also currently working on eLearn articles for both staff and students. Please keep in mind that we are still adding to these and that not every topic is covered yet.  

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Related content

Blackboard Ultra SharePoint site

Blackboard Ultra student – eLearning Support and Resources

Blackboard Original – eLearning Support and Resources