This summer, Blackboard will be updated to incorporate the new Ultra Base Navigation (aka “Base Nav”). The update will take place on August 13, 2022, which means the new navigation will be in place for the Fall 2022 semester.
This new navigation has a sleek, modern look and feel and will save you time with simpler workflows and easier access to important information. Your courses will not change. Keep reading to learn what this means for you.
What is Blackboard Ultra Base Navigation?
It is a modern, intuitive navigation menu that lives outside of courses and provides quick access to the most critical information consolidated from all your courses. “Base Nav” will replace the current “My Blackboard” landing page with a fixed menu that is always available and puts the most important features front and center.
- Your courses will not change. They will look and operate exactly as they do now.
- Base Navigation is mobile friendly and works well across all devices.
- Saves time by reducing the number of clicks to get in, get done and move on.
- You can easily return to the menu from wherever you are—even if you are in a course.
Why are we changing to Base Navigation?
Harper’s current version of Blackboard (Learn Original) has been around a long time. Students are asking for a more modern, easier-to-use, and consistent interface between courses. The current “My Blackboard” screen, with its many tabs and modules, is an outdated design that can be cluttered and confusing to navigate.
Base Nav is more accessible (ADA compliant) and mobile responsive, which makes it a better experience for all students.
Key features across all courses, such as grades, messages and calendars are consolidated in the Base Navigation global menu – and gives access to dive into any course for more details with just one click. The global menu is fixed and always available from any course.
What does this change mean for me?
- Starting August 13, 2022, you will see the new navigation as soon as you log into Blackboard.
- Base Navigation will include links to new pages such as the Activity Stream, Calendar, Messages, etc. that provide quick access to the most critical information consolidated from all your courses.
- Your courses will not change. They will look and operate exactly as they do now.
- To get to your courses, click “Courses” in the Base Nav menu. The course list is more intuitive, showing your current courses by default. It is also easy to filter your list to see what you only need to see. For more information, see Blackboard’s Find Your Courses guide.
What’s Next?
The Academy for Teaching Excellence will have resources, training, and staff to help and support the change to Base Navigation. Watch for more information throughout the summer and into the fall semester.
If you have any questions, fill out the Academy Request Form to be connected with an Academy team member who can help.
If you are interested in learning more about Base Navigation, visit Blackboard’s Ultra Base Navigation page for Instructors.