The Blackboard Maths Editor is an integrated feature within Blackboard that enables users to write, edit, and display mathematical notation and equations in a clear and structured way. This tool allows instructors and students to create equations using an intuitive editor that supports a range of mathematical symbols, operators, and functions across fields such as algebra, calculus, statistics and chemistry.
Blackboard Help for using the Maths Editor.
Creating equations in Blackboard
There are two methods to create a maths equation on Blackboard, using the Math Editor user interface or typesetting the LaTeX equations directly into content areas using the double dollar-sign equation delimiters.
Create equations with the user interface
The Math editor streamlines the process of adding complex mathematical notation into online course materials, enhancing the learning and assessment experience in subjects requiring technical notation. The editor provides a large symbol and operator library to cater for your mathematical discipline.
Create equations that are typeset directly
Within Documents and content areas on Blackboard equations can be typeset in the WYSIWYG editors. You can quickly create equations within Documents, Discussions, and Test Questions by using the $$…$$ typesetting option.
What is typed into Blackboard LaTeX syntax
$$\left(x+a\right)^n=\sum_{k=0}^{n}{\binom{n}{k}x^ka^{n-k}}$$
How the rendered equation appears in Blackboard
How the rendered appeared in the Blackboard App
Accessibility of Math Editor equations
Creating equations with the Math Editor results in accessible mathematics.
The notation is rendered as a scalable vector graphic meaning that it will not blur when a web browser is resized. Users who rely on assistive technology have the option to interpret the equation with the MathML or a semantic alternative text for the image of the equation which is automatically created for all equations.
Example of semantic alternative text
open parenthesis x plus a close parenthesis to the power of n equal sum from k equals 0 to n of open parentheses n over k close parentheses x to the power of k a to the power of n minus k end exponent
Considerations when using the Math Editor
Be sure to verify existing equations after editing
When editing existing equations you should perform a check that the syntax is as you expect. When you go back to edit, be careful that your equation is not adjusted.
I have a large quantity of equations – is this still suitable?
If you already have a substantial amount of notation written in LaTeX, entering it through Blackboard’s graphical math editor may take a substantial amount of time, in this circumstance speak with Digital Learning who may be able to support you with your equation conversions.
Avoid entering plain text into the Math Editor
When creating equations inline with plain text be sure to exclude any non-maths characters from the maths environment. Not excluding the text can result in poorly presented text that does not reflow or adapt well to mobile devices.
Choosing inline or display style maths
The Math Editor does not enable users to select display-style maths, instead, this can achieved by using the plain text editing features to apply the appearance of display-style equations.
Choosing the right font
Blackboard displays mathematical notation in a sans-serif format by default, though some subject areas prefer a serif font.