What is happening?
In 2023, several UQ-developed Blackboard tools will undergo updates to improve their technical robustness and reliability. These tools include SI-net Merge, Grades Upload (grade transfer from Blackboard to SI-net), Bulk Group Manager, External users, Electronic Course Profile link, Grade Check report, OHS Status report and the Unavailable Course report.
How was this project initiated?
The updates to these tools was initiated by ITS as a component of the Blackboard Building Block replacement project.
Why are the tools being updated?
These UQ-developed tools are based on Blackboard Building Block technology. The vendor will be decommissioning this technology at the end of 2023, so the tools need to be rebuilt with a new technology base. The update will also improve the technical robustness and reliability of the tools.
Will there be changes to the functionality of the tools?
There will be minor changes to the tool interfaces and the location from which they are accessed in Learn.UQ. All tools will retain the same functionality.
SI-net Merge
The SI-net Merge tool was updated on 12 April 2023. The tool is now accessible from the Control Panel > Course Tools rather than Grade Centre. There has be no change to the functionality of the tool.
Upload Grades to SI-net
The Upload Grades to SI-net tool was updated on 17 May 2023. The tool is now accessible from the Control Panel > Course Tools rather than Grade Centre. There has be no change to the functionality of the tool.
Other tool updates
The timing of updates for the Bulk Group Manager, External users, Electronic Course Profile (ECP) link, Grade Check report, OHS Status report, and Unavailable Course report will be communicated throughout 2023.
What are the communication plans?
The tool updates are being communicated to staff through a variety of channels including:
- regular articles in Teaching and eLearning News
- a campaign through school and faculty communication channels
- pop-up notices for staff in Learn.UQ (Blackboard)
- a text message in the Learn.UQ Institution page
- a presentation at the Directors of Teaching and Learning meeting
- a presentation at the Academic Services Managers Committee
- a presentation at the eLearning Operational Forum
- a presentation at the eLearning Update
Contact
If staff have any questions about the updates to these tools, they can contact the project team at elearningadvisers@uq.edu.au.