Blackboard is preparing to launch a completely redesigned gradebook this summer, including a faster, cleaner, and significantly easier-to-use experience for faculty. To ensure the update meets the needs of instructors and their courses, Blackboard developers are inviting faculty members to participate in an upcoming technical preview program from April 20 - May 1, 2026. 

During a technical preview, faculty typically get access to a sandbox course with new features enabled. In the upcoming preview window, participants will get exclusive access to the new gradebook for Ultra courses. Key usability improvements include streamlined direct grade entry for quicker updates and flexible name display options, allowing instructors to customize how student names appear. Additional context panels provide quick insights into grading and essential action items.

Ongoing development of the new gradebook has been shaped by faculty feedback from a variety of clients throughout higher education over the past eight to twelve months. Earlier this semester, UMBC's participation in the new gradebook development process began when Blackboard staff visited campus to meet with faculty in small group sessions. The goal was twofold: To gather specific feedback on faculty gradebook priorities and to showcase early previews of the new interface. 

UMBC faculty who are interested in trying out the new gradebook features and providing feedback are encouraged to sign up for the technical preview.

Connect with Instructional Technology

As always, if you have any questions about teaching, learning, and technology at UMBC, please consider the following options:

• Check our extensive FAQ collection 
• What's new in Ultra? | Known Issues 
• Open a ticket via RT
• Follow the Instructional Technology & DoIT myUMBC groups
• Request a consult with instructional technology staff
• PIVOT | Academic Continuity | Keep On Teaching | Student Technology Resources

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