Training Options

The new Blackboard Ultra user interface will go live for the spring 2025 term.  

This requires redesign of all course shells to engage the enhanced Ultra capabilities and allow a more mobile device and online friendly environment. 

In spring 2024, we are focused on training full time faculty and any others interested in the Ultra environment so you may begin considering and trying design ideas in your Ultra sandbox and eventually Ultra master course shells. We are doing our best to provide as much time as possible for faculty to get ready. 

There are two training opportunities providing different levels of information. 

Virtual training sessions  

• Covers the college approach to developing courses in Ultra. We demonstrate the Ultra environment and major capability changes.  
• This program provides an orientation to Ultra and course development. 
• Occurs on Monday and Wednesday for one hour. The Monday and Wednesday sessions cover different material. Start with a Monday and do Wednesday when convenient. 
• We set hour and a half evening sessions on alternating Tuesdays and Thursdays. Attend one of these sessions which cover the full content. 
• Click here to register for either a Monday or evening session:  Ultra Learn Essentials: Getting Started 

Online – Self Paced Training: 

• This training directly from Anthology/Blackboard provides a more in-depth emersion in Ultra. There are three sections we ask all faculty to complete: 
  • Getting Started with Ultra 
  • Building Courses 
  • Assessing Learners 
• These three sessions take up to an hour each. Please do these prior to the fall term. 
• Two additional sections we strongly recommend completing: 
  • Enhancing Communication 
  • Evaluating Your Course 
• Both are important, and we recommend completing these by the end of the fall term. 

Online Training Directions: 

1. Go to Bb Academy site: Blackboard Academy.
2. On the Refine your search field type: Learn Teaching Essentials for Ultra.
3. Click on the course and select Enroll Now.
4. When prompt select the option Sign Up.

Master Shell Development 

Please arrange a 30 minute to one hour meeting with MercerOnline prior to building any master shells. Our goal is to review your course shell structure, help brainstorm using the numerous new features and determine if there are items we can help with.