Presentation Title: “Out with the Old: Transitioning to Blackboard Ultra”

Out with the Old: Transitioning to Blackboard Ultra
Summary

Join the Fairmont State Center for Teaching & Learning Innovation as we discuss the pitfalls and successes we encountered while planning and implementing the phased rollout of a new learning management system.

Description

This presentation will address how the Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation (CTLI) of Fairmont State, with the support of the Information Systems Support Services (ISSS), planned and implemented the phased rollout of Blackboard Learn Ultra to the campus community. From Spring 2024 to the current semester, we have worked diligently to ensure all faculty, staff, and administration receive training and technical support as they utilize the upgraded learning management system. From data management to technical updates, the CTLI encountered several unanticipated pitfalls along the way. We're hoping to share our experience and ultimate success in this transitional period with others.

This presentation would be beneficial for administrators, technology specialists, instructional designers, or anyone who deals heavily with technology integration and support in higher education.

Approval Status:
Unapproved
Date Submitted:
June 11, 2025
Category:
Higher Education Technology and Innovation
Audience:
  • Information Technology Staff
  • Supervisors, Managers, Directors
  • Higher Education Faculty
Topics/Keywords:
  • Technology Adoption

Presenter Information


Presenter(s):
Malinda Blevins
Instructional Designer
Fairmont State University
First Name
  • Victoria
Last Name
  • Maher
Job Title
  • Instructional Designer
Organization
  • Fairmont State University
About the Presenter(s):

I serve as one of two instructional designers for the entire Fairmont State University campus. With support from our director and IT staff, we successfully transitioned our campus from Blackboard Learn Original to Blackboard Learn Ultra. For a team of three, this was a massive undertaking which took over a year to complete. We're hoping to share the pitfalls and successes of our largest endeavor as a department, as well as how differing perceptions surrounding technology impacted our journey.

Administrative Notes

The following is a history of the notes and communication attached to this entry.

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