Starting Fresh Method

Starting fresh is like moving into a brand new home that you design just as you like. You may choose to bring a few cherished items from your old place, but most content will be new. This method may be for you if:

  • You're building a new course.

  • Your course has more than three content levels. BB Ultra offers only three content levels and it may be easier to Start Fresh than redesign later.

  • You want to make design changes during this move. Starting Fresh will give you more flexibility and eliminate issues from conversion.

Ultra Development (DEVU) Course Sites

  • You need an Ultra development (DEVU) site to begin building your course.

  • Most instructors will receive two Ultra development (DEVU) sites, so please check your course list.

  • If you have not received any, you can use this eform to request one.

Starting Fresh - Step by Step

  1. GET A DEVELOPMENT SITE
    Ensure you have an Ultra development (DEVU) course shell for each course you will move using the Starting Fresh method. Most instructors will receive two DEVU shells by the beginning of October, so please check your course list to see if you have them. If you don’t, you can request them at any time.


  1. CHOOSE YOUR COURSE
    Locate the course you want to move. You will use this course as a guide, so choose the best version you have.


  1. STORE YOUR FILES OUTSIDE OF BLACKBOARD
    If you have files that you want to bring with you, we highly recommend that you do not use Blackboard as your file storage. Rather than attaching or uploading files, best practice is to embed or link to them. Doing this creates an optimal and equitable student experience, and helps to eliminate the many issues students have with attached files, videos, etc. Also, this practice will help to keep your course size within the 2.5 GB allotted storage limit.


  1. ADD STRUCTURE
    You definitely want to start with the Humber Ultra Template in your course. It provides the most up-to-date versions of standard essential elements that both you and your students require, such as student resource links, the land acknowledgement agreement, and help with your welcome message and critical path.


  1. ADD CONTENT
    Set up the Getting Started folder, and add learning materials to your modules and folders.


  1. ADD INTERACTIVITY
    Create Discussions and Journals, and set up Groups as required.


  1. ADD ASSESSMENTS
    Create Tests and Assignments as required. Although we recommend recreating assessments in Ultra, you can also try moving them over from Original. Be sure to follow the instructions for a successful move.


  1. REVIEW WITH STUDENT PREVIEW
    Now that you've done all your work, it's time to check your course from the student perspective. This is an essential step in checking the quality of your work and ensure everything is working as expected your students.


  1. CELEBRATE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS
    It is good to celebrate achievements, so when you finish a course, give yourself a pat on the back, or a high five, or a Breakfast Club fist pump... whatever your thing is, congratulations!