Blackboard’s updated navigation goes live Aug. 12

The left side vertical navigation menu for UAF Blackboard has been updated so it now includes the account holder's Blackboard username along with links to the Activity Stream, Courses, Organizations, Calendar, Messages, Grades, Tools and Sign Out.
The left side vertical navigation menu for UAF Blackboard has been updated so it now includes the account holder's Blackboard username along with links to the Activity Stream, Courses, Organizations, Calendar, Messages, Grades, Tools and Sign Out.

Beginning Aug. 12, Blackboard users will see an updated and modernized navigation tool when logging into UA Blackboard. With the addition of Ultra Base Navigation, expect a streamlined nav experience, creating easier access to the learning tool.

What is Ultra Base Navigation?

Ultra Base Navigation is the central navigation menu that exists outside of the Blackboard course experience. The menu includes many new features, such as the user Activity Stream and a modernized Calendar, providing users with quick and easy access to their most critical course information, from grades to deadlines.

How does this change affect you?

This visual refresh significantly improves usability and performance across platforms, helping to elevate the user experience on mobile and tablet devices. This update does not change anything inside the courses. Courses will continue to look and feel the same as they do right now. Instructors do not need not take any action related to this update. Most users will simply find the new layout more intuitive and easier to navigate.

What’s changing?

  • Courses will be accessed via the new ‘Courses’ tab, organized by semester.
  • Users will have the option to save Courses as favorites for easier access, along with a tool to search previous semesters’ sections.
  • The UAF tab in Blackboard willbe easier to use.
  • The updated nav tool makes it easy for students to track course activity and due dates across multiple courses.

Where can you find more information about Ultra Base navigation?

Before using the new navigation panel, Blackboard recommends reading through introductory information for students or instructors.

Overview for students: Video / Student brochure

Overview for instructors: Video / Educator brochure

If you have questions, contact the UA Blackboard Admin Team at UAF OIT.