As the semester gains momentum, CIT is here to support your teaching with technology. Whether you’re exploring Blackboard Ultra, planning a classroom visit, or stopping by one of our tabling events, we’re ready to help you create engaging, accessible learning experiences. Let’s make this fall a season of creativity, confidence, and connection.
Office Hours
Stop by anytime or schedule a one-on-one consultation. Our office is open from 8:00am to 4:45pm. We are located in Gordon Palmer Hall A203 (Annex).
More Learning Opportunities
Learn with us! CIT regularly hosts workshops and webinars on UA instructional technologies and technology accessibility. Find the full list on our website – cit.ua.edu.
Spotlight Events
Ultra Café
Date: September 11th
Location: Gordon Palmer Hall
Time: 9am-11am, 1pm-3pm
Ultra Office Hours
This Month’s Topic: Tracking Performance
Location: Virtual
Time: 1pm-2pm
Ultra Good Features
We’re excited about these updates coming to Ultra in September! Check out this Anthology blog post for more information and a complete list: What’s New in Blackboard – September 2025
Block styling options for Documents
- This update helps instructors enhance visual appeal and guide student attention. The styling options feature both color and icons and include:
- Question: Use for prompts or reflective questions. Keep questions concise and open-ended to encourage critical thinking.
- Tip: Use for tips, insights, or helpful suggestions. Ensure tips are actionable and relevant to the content.
- Key points: Use to highlight key points or essential facts. Keep these blocks brief and focused to reinforce retention.
- Next steps: Use for next steps or instructions. Present steps in a clear, logical order and consider using numbered lists for clarity.
Enhance Documents with block styling options – 3900.125
Blackboard Help – Create Documents
Additional September updates:
- Add and manage question titles in tests, forms, and banks
- Use pop-out rubric when grading group submissions
- Improved accessibility on the Submissions list page in the Gradebook
- Display per question feedback to students on group test submissions
- Display time limits and extra time consistently across roles
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All UA instructors of record are subscribed to updates about Blackboard and other instructional technology. UA community members who would like to be added to the communications list for CIT news can contact us.