Communication Tools
Instructors have many tools and features within Blackboard that foster communication and engagement with students in their modules. These tools are designed to promote collaboration, self-reflection, and community building, allowing instructors to tailor their communication strategies. The primary two communication tools are Announcements and Messages.
Communication Tools within an Ultra Module are:
- Announcements – Share module announcements to all students.
- Messages – Communicate directly with individuals, groups, or the entire class through Blackboard's internal messaging system.
- Discussions – Create, organise, and manage discussion forums for meaningful student interaction.
- Journals – Set up private spaces for student reflection and instructor feedback, both graded and ungraded.
- Conversations – Enable content-specific discussions to support collaborative learning tied to course materials.
Communication Tools Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
The difference between discussions and journals
Discussions are open to all students or groups of students. Students can comment on others' posts. You can allow students to post anonymously in Discussions.
Journals are private between the student and the Instructor. Other students cannot view the content of another student's Journal.
If you require support with using Blackboard for teaching and learning, instructional design and development of modules, and any activities associated with the discipline of teaching. Additionally, if you are experiencing issues with any of the integrations or with accessing Blackboard or specific modules, please contact the Teaching & Learning IT team via the IT Service Desk using one of the following methods.
You can email the service desk at itservicedesk@tcd.ie.
Service desk opening hours are: Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:00