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  5. Blackboard – The difference between Original and Ultra modules
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  4. Getting Started.... Navigating Blackboard Ultra
  5. Blackboard – The difference between Original and Ultra modules
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  2. Staff guides
  3. Blackboard Ultra staff guides
  4. Blackboard – The difference between Original and Ultra modules

Blackboard – The difference between Original and Ultra modules

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 by selecting Courses and viewing modules in a list.

1. Select Courses.

2. Choose the three horizontal lines (next to “Search your courses”) and this will arrange your modules in a list.

Screen shot of course list page showing how to change from grid to list view

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 have a grey bar.
  • Ultra courses have a colour bar.
Screenshot of course list showing the different between Ultra and Original courses in list view

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

The Difference between Original and Ultra Module Layouts

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 have a layout with a left-hand navigation menu and usually open on the announcement page. See image (student view):

Screen shot of Original module showing the lefthand navigation menu

Ultra Module

Ultra modules open to the Course Content page and display a left-hand Details & Actions menu with the Navigation Bar at the top of the page. See image (student view):

Screenshot of Ultra module landing page showing highlight left hand menu and top navigation bar

At the top of the module page, you will be able to open frequently used tools in one step. Select the Content, Calendar, Announcements, Discussions, Gradebook and Messages tabs to easily access those tools.

Details and Actions

In this area, you can view course information and tools with these options:

  • Class Register: If enabled, shows a list of individuals on your module.
  • Progress Tracking: Allows you to see your module progress relating to content, assignments and tests.
  • Books and Tools: Displays tools available in your course and your institution.

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