Blackboard Learn

Blackboard Ultra Navigation Go Live

Beginning August 12, 2022, 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.

Link to image of ultra nav bars for UAA, UAF, UAS, UA

The left side vertical navigation menus for the UAA, UAF, UAS and UA Blackboard have been updated so they now include the account holder's Blackboard username along with links to the Activity Stream, Courses, Organizations, Calendar, Messages, Grades, Tools and Sign Out.

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 will be 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 instructors: Video / Educator brochure

Overview for students: Video / Student brochure

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