What's New in Blackboard Ultra?

August Update Overview

Blackboard Ultra continues to introduce improvements designed to simplify course navigation, increase visible workspace, and make common course tasks easier for instructors and students.

Watch the overview video or use the menu to explore each update. Each section includes space for a larger image, a written description, and a short video demonstration.

Watch the August Update Video

Having trouble viewing the video?

Watch the August Blackboard Ultra update video on YouTube .

Explore the August Changes

Course Display

Full-Screen View

Instructors and students can use an expanded full-screen view in supported areas of Blackboard Ultra. This provides more room to view and work with course content while reducing distractions from surrounding navigation elements.

▶ Watch the Full-Screen View Video

Navigation

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumb navigation helps users understand where they are within a course and provides a clearer path back to previous folders, modules, or course areas.

▶ Watch the Breadcrumbs Video

Grading

Gradebook Changes

Updates to the Gradebook improve how instructors view, organize, and manage student grades. Faculty may notice changes to the Gradebook layout, available controls, or the steps used to access grading information.

▶ Watch the Gradebook Changes Video

Student Experience

Student To-Do List

The updated student To-Do List gives students a clearer view of upcoming assignments, assessments, and other course requirements. This can help students identify priorities, track due dates, and manage their coursework.

Content Creation

Updated Text Editor

The updated text editor provides a revised interface for creating and formatting content in Blackboard Ultra. Instructors and students may notice changes to the appearance or location of formatting, media, and link controls.

▶ Watch the Updated Text Editor Video

Image showing where you would click to get the duplicate option

Course Building

Duplicating Content in a Course

Instructors can duplicate supported content within a Blackboard Ultra course, making it easier to reuse course materials without rebuilding them from the beginning. After duplicating an item, review its title, availability, dates, links, and settings to ensure the copied version is ready for students.

▶ Watch the Duplicating Content Video

Blackboard Ultra Support

Mercy Online is available to help faculty understand and use the latest Blackboard Ultra features. Faculty can review additional resources, attend a training session, or contact Mercy Online for assistance.

View Blackboard Ultra Support Resources