What is Blackboard Learn?

Blackboard Learn is a virtual learning environment and course management system developed by Blackboard Inc. The web-based server software features course management, customizable open architecture, and scalable design that allows integration with student information systems and authentication protocols. It may be installed on local servers or hosted by Blackboard ASP Solutions. Its main purposes are to add online elements to courses traditionally delivered face-to-face and to develop completely online courses with few or no face-to-face meetings.

All Texas A&M University-Texarkana online and web-enhanced courses use Blackboard Learn course management system. All face-to-face courses have access to Blackboard Learn as a supplemental tool to enhance face-to-face teaching. Blackboard Learn courses utilize a variety of tools including a syllabus, learning modules, discussions, calendar, email, announcements, grade book, exams, and assignments.

Communication

Announcements: Professors and teachers may post announcements for students to read. These can be found under the announcement tab, and can be emailed to the student.
Discussions: This feature allows students and professors to create a discussion thread and reply to ones already created.
Email: Blackboard’s email tool allows students and teachers to send mail to one another. This feature supports mass emailing to students in a course.
Course Messages: Blackboard offers an internal course messaging feature. Messages can be sent between students and instructor individually or in bulk. Messages remain inside the course.

Content

Course content: This feature allows teachers to post articles, assignments, videos etc.
Calendar: Teachers can use this function to post due dates for assignments and tests.
Learning modules: This feature is often used for strictly online classes. It allows professors to post different lessons for students to access.
Assessments: This tab allows teachers to post quizzes and exams and allows students to access them via the Internet
Assignments: This features allows assignments to be posted and students to submit assignments online
Grade Book: Teachers and professors may post grades on Blackboard for students to view.
ShareStream Media Library: Videos and other media may be posted under this function.

More information about Blackboard Learn can be found at Blackboard Learn Overview site.