As part of our move from Blackboard Learn to Blackboard Learn Ultra, a project to design an approved institutional level course template took place. The purpose of the template was to optimise the student experience by letting students know where to look to find what they need and to practically assist colleagues to structure and locate content.
The template is designed to:
- Provide a consistent, well-structured and easy to navigate layout for students and staff.
- Indicate the baseline requirements for the provision of core information and content.
- Facilitate the delivery of digitally enabled learning to provide a cohesive online experience across Blackboard courses and create a sense of belonging.
Colleagues are guided with instructions on how to use the course template.
Student feedback has often highlighted the inconsistent and variable layout of courses and how this impacts usability, accessibility and engagement.
The development of the template was evidence-based and consolidated the work individual Schools had done to improve consistency.
The template was developed in conjunction with staff and students, an analysis of their experience and feedback; a review of existing templates and sector wide good practice; consideration of teaching, technical and operational requirements; and was designed to align with the Portfolio Review.
It was approved by DELT & UBTLSE for use by all standard modules taught from the start of academic year 2024/25.
