Major Blackboard Upgrade
In August 2009, Blackboard will undergo a key upgrade. This upgrade will optimize Blackboard’s performance, increase its stability and incorporate the addition of new features to enhance learning and instruction. To learn more about the new features coming in August and beyond, please visit http://its.unc.edu/BBNews/blackboard_upgrade/.
The Blackboard upgrade will result in new features and some interface changes. Training is available through help documentation, online tutorials, online videos and instructor-led sessions. For information on training opportunities, please visit http://its.unc.edu/BBNews/blackboard_upgrade/tutorials/index.htm.
A test migration will take place prior to the outage. Between June 17-30, 2009, faculty are encouraged to visit a "Data Verification site" to review and confirm that their data is correct and unchanged following data migration.
The upgrade requires a total Blackboard outage between July 28-August 6, 2009. Any Blackboard materials needed during the outage period must be downloaded or extracted prior to the outage. For assistance downloading a Gradebook or extracting course materials with the tool, bFree, please visit How to Extract Blackboard Content Prior to Outage and Make it Available or contact 962-HELP.
For additional information on the Blackboard upgrade, as well as status updates, timelines and training opportunities, please visit http://its.unc.edu/BBNews/blackboard_upgrade/ regularly.
