Blackboard Ultra (Faculty) - Gradebook: Calculation Columns

Calculation Columns

Calculation columns allow you to combine multiple grade columns to calculate performance results. You can add calculations based on the average, total, maximum, or minimum of the variables you include, such as categories, graded items, and other calculations. You can add as many calculations as you need. 

• Total: Calculates the total points a student earned, based on the points possible.
• Average: Generates an average from a selected number of columns.
• Maximum: Displays the highest grade from a selected number of columns.
• Minimum: Displays the lowest grade from a selected number of columns.

Add a Calculation Column

1. From the Gradebook, in the Gradable Items or Grades view, click the plus sign where you want to place the new column, and select Add Calculation.
   
   
   
   
2. Enter a title for the calculation. If you don't add a title, "New Calculation" plus the date will appear in the Gradebook. Optionally, enter a column description.
3. Under Select a grade schema, select how the calculation results should appear: Letter, Points, Percentage, Complete/Incomplete, or Pass/Fail.
4. The column will default to Hidden from students. To display the calculation column on students' Grades pages, select Visible to students in the top right corner of the screen. Students will see the calculated grades, but not the descriptions or formulas.
   
   
   
   
5. Start creating your formula. In the left pane, select a function, variable, or operator to add it to the right pane.
6. For example, select Total in the left pane to add that function to the right pane. Use the drop-down arrow to expand the list and select the items to include in the formula. When you choose a category, all items in that category are included. If items are not categorized, you can choose graded items and other calculations individually. Scroll through the list to view all items.
   
   • After you make a selection in a menu, click outside of the menu to exit and save the selection in the right pane. Each element you add to the formula appears at the end.
   • To reorder your formula, select an element and drag it to the new location.
   • To remove an element, select it and select the X.
   • To start over completely, select Clear to remove all elements at one time.
   • NOTE: You can reuse any function, variable, or operator.

7. Select Validate to check the accuracy of your formula. Issues with your formula are highlighted in red. Make changes as needed.

8. Once the formula is confirmed as valid, click Save. The new calculated column appears in your Gradebook.

   

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