eLearning

Gradebook Grid View update 2026

Duration: 
July 2026–September 2026

What is happening?

Blackboard will release an update to the Gradebook grid view on 7 August 2026. The updated view introduces changes to how staff interact with the Gradebook, with a more streamlined layout that consolidates grading information, feedback, posting status and workflow actions into a single Grade Details panel. These changes are designed to make grading faster and more efficient for instructors.

Why is this update occurring during Semester?

The vendor performs regular monthly updates to Blackboard. This particular Gradebook update aligns with the commencement of the North American academic year. UQ, together with several other Australian universities, have engaged with the vendor to seek a delay to the Gradebook update so that it occurs at a more suitable time. However, the vendor has advised that postponing the update is not possible.

What is changing?

The following are changing in the Grid View:

  • Layout and navigation, including a new Grade Details panel that brings grading information and actions into one place
  • Grade entry workflow
  • How grades are posted and the ease in which you can confirm marks are posted.
  • How exceptions and exemptions are managed, now grouped under Accommodations

The following are not changing:

  • All gradebook columns, categories, and overall grade calculations
  • Grade schemas and grading settings
  • Flexible grading (opens and works the same)
  • The List View / Gradable Items (no changes)
  • Course-level accommodations
  • All assessment types: assignments, tests, forms, journals, discussions
  • Download/upload gradebook (now located in Gradebook Settings)
  • Anonymous grading workflows
  • All existing grades and submission history

For a side-by-side comparison of the changes, refer to the Gradebook Grid View comparison guide.

Communication channels

The eLearning Systems and Support team will communicate with staff across UQ through a variety of channels, including:

If you have any particular concerns, please contact elearningadvisers@uq.edu.au.

Communications completed

  • 14 July 2026 - Demonstration of the updated Gradebook grid view to members of the eLearning Operational Forum.
  • 16 July 2026 - Post in the Ask an eLearning Adviser Teams channel.

Communications planned

  • 20 July 2026 - Article in eLearning newsletter.
  • 30 July 2026 - Demonstration of the updated Gradebook grid view to members of the Learning Design Community and eLearning update.
  • 3 August 2026 - Article in UQ update