When grading assignments and discussions on Blackboard, rubrics can be incorporated and used to guide grading. This article guides an instructor on how to use a rubric when performing inline grading in Blackboard, and assumes that the instructor has already created a rubric on Blackboard to be used (for more information on this, please see "How to Create a Rubric on Blackboard").
The Grading Schema on Blackboard is a feature that converts the numerical values of graded assignments/assessments into letters, based on a map. This also can be used to allow faculty to enter in letter grades and have them calculate a numerical value based on a designated range set up in the schema. This article shows how to set up and manage Grading Schemas.
Discussions on Blackboard allow for asynchronous discussion and collaboration to take place within a Blackboard course. Discussions can be used for Student Lounges, FAQs, as well as graded assignment, assessment and project submissions. These articles explain the components of Discussions and demonstrate how to set up forums and grade submissions.
One of the major changes between Blackboard Original and Blackboard Ultra is the Gradebook, replacing the Grade Center. This tool has become more robust, with more features for grading and tracking progress. In August 2026, additional elements of the Gradebook in Ultra have been updated, and new resources were developed to support faculty on how to use this area of their course. This article provides access to training and information on the Gradebook in Blackboard Ultra for faculty usage.