The Aston Blackboard template has been developed in consultation with students and staff and draws significantly from established practice.
The consistent approach is designed to enable students to access key information in a straightforward way. Capacity remains to personalise and reflect the distinctive characteristics of individual modules.
Information and guidance are presented here for each of the module menu areas. This includes clear information about Aston Expectations, links to ‘how to’ technical details about using Blackboard tools and features, and additional guidance about the application of Blackboard in supporting students and managing learning, teaching and assessment activities.
In addition to University requirements, College and School requirements and guidelines will be made available.
Further information and guidance will be added to these pages.
The Module Information area
A clearly defined space where key details can be presented for students
The Announcements area
The default landing page for students at module level
The Module Specification area
A link to the module's specification on the University Module Directory.
The Learning and Teaching Activities area
Structure and present information and resources for students related to module study
The Learning Resources area
A space where additional information and resources can be presented for students
The Aston Replay Recordings area
Houses all Panopto recordings for the module.
The Collaborate Webinars area
Set up webinars for scheduled synchronous teaching activities
The Assessment and Feedback area
Include clear information and guidance about all aspects of formative and summative assessment activity for a module
The Assessment Submission area
Clear information about and/or points of submission and completion of all assessment activities
The My Grades and Feedback area
Provides students with access to assessment information.
The Academic Support and Staff Contact Details
Outline opportunities for direct academic support
The Employability and Professional Skills area
A clear summary of how the module supports the development of employability and professional skills
The Study Skills Support area
Links to Student Services and an A-Z list of the most relevant points of help and support for students
The Student Voice area
Links to the Aston Students’ Union and should also include module specific information including details of formal feedback methods and student representation