Blackboard Ultra (Faculty) - Generative AI Features in Ultra
Generative AI Features in Blackboard Ultra
Blackboard Ultra includes several built-in AI tools that assist with course design and content creation. These tools are called “Auto-Generate” Modules, Discussion, Tests, Rubrics, and Layouts, along with a separate feature called AI Conversations. This overview will briefly discuss each feature.
Please note that while Ultra AI can be very useful for getting started, it should not be relied upon entirely. Each generated item should be carefully reviewed and revised as needed for clarity and accuracy.
Where You'll See AI Tools in Ultra
When Generative AI is available, Blackboard displays an Auto-Generate icon in the interface. This icon indicates that AI assistance can be used to create content more efficiently, such as modules, assessments, or images.
How to Use Generative AI in Ultra
Learning Modules
The Auto-Generate Modules tool creates structured learning modules using a brief topic description or existing course content.
- Navigate to Course Content.
- Select the + icon and choose Auto-Generate Modules.
- Enter or paste a topic description or select existing course items.
- Choose:
- Number of modules
- Whether to include AI-generated images
- Select Generate.
- Review the generated modules.
- Check the items you want to use and select Add to Course.
Modules can be reordered and edited on the Course Content page after they are created and added to your course.
Assignments and Discussions
AI can assist with drafting Assignments and Discussions aligned to different cognitive levels.
- Open a new or existing Assignment or Discussion.
- Select Auto-Generate (top-right of the page).
- Provide a topic or select existing course content.
- Choose a Desired Cognitive Level:
- Inspire me!
- Apply
- Analyze
- Evaluate
- Create
- Review the generated options.
- Select your preferred version and click Add.
Choosing Inspire me! provides multiple examples pulled from various cognitive levels.
Test Questions
The AI assistant can generate draft test questions aligned with course content.
- Open a Test.
- Select the + icon and choose Auto-Generate Question.
- Provide a description or select existing course materials.
- Choose a Question Type:
- Inspire me!
- Essay
- Fill in the Blank
- Jumbled Sentence
- Matching
- Multiple Choice
- True/False
- Review the generated questions.
- Select questions to keep, then choose Add to Assessment.
Images
AI-generated images can be added to modules, documents, and other content areas.
- Open a content area with the text editor.
- Click Image.
- From Image Source, select Generate images.
- Enter a detailed image description and click Generate.
- Adjust aspect ratio or zoom (available only immediately after generation).
- Select Next.
- Enter a descriptive display name.
- Provide appropriate alt text or mark the image as decorative, as applicable.
- Click Save.
Some copyrighted imagery may not be generated.
Rubrics
AI can draft basic rubrics that instructors can customize.
- Go to Gradebook.
- Select the Settings (gear icon).
- Scroll to Course Rubrics and select Generate.
- Enter a brief description.
- Choose a Rubric Type (e.g., points, percentage).
- Set:
- Rows and columns
- Complexity level
- Click Generate.
- Review and adjust the rubric.
- Select Continue, then Save.
Rubrics can also be generated within assessments and discussions.
Layout of Documents
The Auto-Generate Layout tool organizes document content into a visually structured format.
- Open a document and select Edit Content.
- Choose Auto-Generate Layout.
- Review layout settings.
- It is recommended to deselect “Include relevant images” if images are not needed.
- Knowledge Checks are enabled by default and can be turned off.
- Select Apply Layout.
Tips for Effective Use
- Provide Context: The more information you give the AI, the better the results will be. Clearly outline the topic, learning objectives, and desired outcomes.
- Review and Edit: Always review and edit the content generated by the AI. Ensure it aligns with your teaching style and course objectives.
- Iterate: If you're not happy with the initial results, refine your input and try again. The AI learns from each iteration.
- Starting Point: AI tools are intended as starting points, not finished instructional materials.
Limitations
- Accuracy: While the AI is trained on a vast dataset, it is not infallible. Verify the accuracy of all generated content.
- Bias: The AI may reflect biases present in the data it was trained on. Be mindful of potential biases and address them accordingly.
- Originality: Always check for plagiarism to ensure academic integrity.
Need Additional Support?
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact the ITS Help Desk:
- Call: (618) 650-5500
- Email: help@siue.edu
- Visit: Lovejoy Library Room 0005 during regular business hours.
This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!