How to Create Groups in Blackboard

Many colleges utilize Blackboard as their primary class management tool. Blackboard allows a range of versatility, including a function allowing instructors to create groups for projects. This gives students an opportunity to work using online discussions, chats and file sharing. This function allows you to monitor work that the group does and evaluate the contributions of each member. It takes set-up time, but provides great benefits.

Instructions

Setting Up the Group

1. Login to your college's Blackboard site. Most colleges provide a link in their campus portal system or provide instructors with the address for the Blackboard site.

2. Determine the class you are creating groups for and select that link. Blackboard separates classes by those that you are taking and those that you are teaching. You may only create groups for classes that you teach.

3. Select the "Control Panel" link on the course page. Find this link in the left frame of the website under the heading "Tools."

4. Choose the option of "Manage Groups" under the "User Management" heading on this page. It appears at the top on the right hand side of the page.

5. Click on the button marked "Add Group" at the top of this page. It links you to the add group creation function.

6. Type the name you wish to give the group. Choose a generic name because you can change this later if you wish. If you wish to give a description of the group, you may in the text box under the group name.

7. Give your students access to any functions that will help them in the project by selecting them in "Group Options." The available options include a discussion board, a virtual classroom for live chats, a group file exchange and email functions.

8. Finish creating the group by selecting the "Submit" button. This will complete the group setup and you are ready to populate the group.

Adding Group Members

1. Select the modify button next to your newly created group. This allows you to make any changes that you would like to the group.

2. Choose the second link marked "Add Users to Group." The selection takes you to a search box.

3. Click on the "List All" tab above the search box and then select the "List all" button. A complete class roster appears.

4. Decide which students you want in the group and place a check in the box next to their name.

5. Submit this by selecting the button at the bottom of the page.

Tips & Warnings

• Place yourself into every group you create. This will allow you to monitor the group's activity.