Tips for Blackboard Ultra Courses
Blackboard Learn Ultra is the most modern, intuitive, and personalized Blackboard user experience. Learn Ultra is characterized by simplified workflows and an accessible, fully responsive design—making it easier than ever to teach and learn from any device.
Ultra Guides and Videos
Navigate to the appropriate section below to find the guide or video you need, then click the + button to open it.
Images:
Learning Modules and/or Folders:
NOTE: Learning Modules are the primary container of choice in Blackboard Ultra and provide features that are not available in Folders. Our recommendation is a Learning Module, with subfolders and content. Think of Learning Modules as a filing cabinet drawer, and within that drawer, you have folders and then documents in those folders. We only have three layers available and you cannot have subfolders within those folders. For accessibility and usability purposes, all content should be accessible to students within three clicks.
A typical Learning Module may look like this:
Week 1 (Learning Module)
- Readings Lectures & Videos
- Video
- PowerPoint
- Document
- Learning Activities
- Quiz
- Assignment
- Discussion
- Journal
How you organize your course is up to you, but be sure it is consistent so students can easily find content.
Tests/Quizzes:
Assignments:
Discussions:
- How to Create a Discussion
- How to Auto-Generate Discussions
- How to create a Group Discussion
- Discussion Analytics
Journals:
AI Conversations:
Respondus Lockdown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within a learning management system. When students use Respondus Lockdown Browser, they are unable to print, copy, go to another URL, or access other applications.
Respondus Monitor is an automated proctoring solution that works with Respondus Lockdown Browser to provide an additional layer of security for online exams. It uses a student's webcam and microphone to record the exam session and flag suspicious behavior for instructor review.
Key Features
Respondus Lockdown Browser
- Prevents students from accessing other websites, applications, or system functions
- Disables printing, screen capture, and copy/paste functions
- Integrates seamlessly with major learning management systems
- Customizable security settings for different exam requirements
Respondus Monitor
- Automated proctoring through webcam and microphone recording
- Facial recognition technology to verify student identity
- Intelligent flagging system for suspicious behaviors
- Post-exam review tools for instructors
- Detailed analytics and reporting
Recent Updates & New Features
MS Excel Integration
Faculty can now allow students to use Microsoft Excel during exams when using Respondus Monitor. This feature enables math, statistics, and business courses to incorporate spreadsheet calculations into their assessments while maintaining exam security.
Enhanced Device Detection
A new flagging system has been implemented that automatically detects when a test taker is holding a phone or other device during the exam. This provides instructors with better visibility into potential security concerns and helps maintain exam integrity.
Expanded Publisher Integrations
Respondus Monitor now offers seamless integrations with additional educational publishers:
- WebAssign (Cengage) - New integration available
- Hawkes Learning - New integration available
- Pearson MyLab - Previously available
- McGraw Hill ALEKS - Previously available
These integrations streamline the exam setup process and provide a more cohesive testing experience for both instructors and students.
Getting Started
For Instructors
- Create your test in Blackboard Ultra
- Go into the test options (gear icon) and scroll down to Respondus and click on the link: LockDown Browser Dashboard
- Click the drop-down arrow next to the assessment you wish to use the Lockdown Browser for > Settings
- Select "Require Respondus LockDown Browser for this exam"
- If you wish to enable proctoring, select "Require Respondus Monitor (automated proctoring) for this exam"
- When done, click Save and Close.
For Students
Students will need to:
- Download and install Respondus Lockdown Browser
- Test their webcam and microphone (for Monitor)
- Ensure they have a stable internet connection
- Follow pre-exam setup instructions provided by their instructor
System Requirements
Minimum Technical Requirements
- Windows: Windows 10 or higher
- Mac: macOS 10.13 or higher
- Webcam: Required for Respondus Monitor
- Microphone: Required for Respondus Monitor
- Internet: Stable broadband connection
Support & Resources
Need Help?
- Technical Support: Contact actech@hartford.edu
- Training Resources: Available through your learning management system
- Best Practices: Consult with your instructional design team
Respondus Account Management
For questions about features, integrations, or account management, you can:
- Contact our Respondus Account Manager, Dan Shannon
- Schedule a consultation: go.oncehub.com/RespondusCallwithDan
Best Practices for Faculty
- Test Before Go-Live: Always test the exam environment before the actual exam date
- Provide Clear Instructions: Give students detailed setup and troubleshooting guidance
- Review Flagged Content: Regularly check Monitor reports for flagged behaviors
- Communicate Requirements: Clearly communicate technical requirements to students in advance
- Have a Backup Plan: Prepare alternative arrangements for students experiencing technical difficulties
For additional information about implementing Respondus solutions, contact your account manager (above) or the Office of Academic Technology & Digital Innovation at actech@hartford.edu.
Here’s where you’ll find the newest insights into the latest features and improvements of our award-winning course experience. As a dedicated educator, you play a pivotal role in shaping the future—and we want to ensure that you have everything you need to make the most out of Blackboard.
Check back regularly for the latest updates
Want to see new things or features/tools for instructing students? Faculty and Staff are welcome to contribute their ideas -- in fact, we encourage it! Anthology/Blackboard is very responsive about adopting our ideas.