{"id":9168,"date":"2026-05-19T14:18:10","date_gmt":"2026-05-19T13:18:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/?p=9168"},"modified":"2026-05-19T14:18:12","modified_gmt":"2026-05-19T13:18:12","slug":"a-recipe-for-creating-engaging-content-in-blackboard-ultra","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/2026\/05\/19\/a-recipe-for-creating-engaging-content-in-blackboard-ultra\/","title":{"rendered":"A recipe for creating engaging content in Blackboard Ultra"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide will describe the steps you can take to create a course that is both engaging and adheres to the Blackboard Universal Standards (BUS). If you are not sure what the BUS is or what it means for your Ultra course, please visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/sotonac.sharepoint.com\/teams\/BlackboardUltra\/SitePages\/Blackboard-Universal-Standards.aspx\">BUS SharePoint<\/a> site (accessible to UoS staff) before going through this content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Before you start<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/knowledge-base\/bb-ultra-rollover\/\">Roll over your previous year\u2019s Ultra course<\/a> or, if this is a new course, <a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/knowledge-base\/find-and-request-blackboard-courses\/\">check the guidance to see how to set this up<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You are now ready to start populating\/enhancing your course (depending on whether this is a new or rollover course).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ingredients<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lots of copyright-free images related to your course (image you\u2019ve taken, <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/\">Unsplash<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/\">Pixabay<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/\">Pexels<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prepared <a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/knowledge-base\/bb-ultra-reading-list\/\">online reading list<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assessment task(s) detail<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Structured breakdown of course content (ordered chronologically, or by topic, or by activity)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact details of lead instructor(s)\/academic(s)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/knowledge-base\/bb-ultra-create-content\/\">Learning modules, documents, LTI tools* from the Ultra \u2018+\u2019 menu<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A mix of activities and media such as video, interactive video, Teams tasks, and interactive quizzes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">*LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability) tools are a standard way for external learning applications (\u201capps\u201d) to connect and work inside&nbsp;Blackboard.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Method<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/knowledge-base\/bb-ultra-add-banner\/\">Start with a suitable banner<\/a> image (not to be confused with Banner \u2013 the student records system) image. Remember to add ALT text.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"352\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/PSIO-banner-1024x352.png\" alt=\"A screenshot from a Blackboard course showing the course name and an banner image of some clasped hands.\" class=\"wp-image-9172\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/PSIO-banner-1024x352.png 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/PSIO-banner-300x103.png 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/PSIO-banner-768x264.png 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/PSIO-banner.png 1439w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2. Set up the usual module information and instructor information, as per the BUS. Further <a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/knowledge-base\/bb-ultra-create-content\/\">guidance on this topic can be found in the eLearn Guides<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"369\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/Modules-ni-Bb-1024x369.png\" alt=\"A screenshot from a Blackboard course showing a Learning Module in context.\" class=\"wp-image-9173\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/Modules-ni-Bb-1024x369.png 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/Modules-ni-Bb-300x108.png 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/Modules-ni-Bb-768x277.png 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/Modules-ni-Bb.png 1439w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">3. Add a \u2018learning module\u2019 from the + icon menu in Ultra. Then add an image for each week (or topic, if you have decided to group your course according to subject categories). Include a short description of what will be covered. This helps students to look up material based on its content, rather than trying to remember what week or session number they were in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"940\" height=\"222\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Week-1.jpg\" alt=\"A Learning Module in Blackboard. It has the title &quot;Diving in with both feet&quot;, some additional context about what is covered in Week 1 and a image of someone jumping into a lake.\" class=\"wp-image-9287\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Week-1.jpg 940w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Week-1-300x71.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Week-1-768x181.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 940px) 100vw, 940px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ultra elements, engaging activities and supporting materials<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now to populate your course with activities and supporting materials. In PSIO2033 Healthy Discussions for Physiotherapy, a combination of activities is included each week<ins>:<\/ins><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"494\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Activities-1024x494.jpg\" alt=\"A screenshot of some activities in Blackboard with some annotations showing that there is a combination of documents, reading list items, and journal activities.\" class=\"wp-image-9289\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Activities-1024x494.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Activities-300x145.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Activities-768x371.jpg 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Activities.jpg 1430w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What adds <strong>engagement<\/strong> here is the combination of activities. Let\u2019s look at this again from an engagement point of view:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"944\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Engagement-1024x944.jpg\" alt=\"A screenshot of a learning module in Blackboard. It shows all of the listed activities for Week three: \nA PowerPoint; a video clip; an interactive quiz; multimedia Teams task, pre-reading and opportunity for feedback. The screenshot is annotated to explain that the PowerPoint introduces the week's topic; video clips demonstrate the required skills; the interactive quiz can be done asynchronously, and so on.\" class=\"wp-image-9288\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Engagement-1024x944.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Engagement-300x276.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Engagement-768x708.jpg 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Engagement.jpg 1439w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Multimedia Teams task<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Students watch a video of a patient (played by an actor) giving a reason why they do not want to take advice. Students then use Microsoft Teams to record a video response back to the \u2018patient\u2019. The aim for this task was to demonstrate they knew how to use the reflective listening techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"898\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Teams-task-898x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A screenshot of a video task. The instructions read: This week's video response exercise focuses on reflective listening. Your task is to listen carefully to the patient (via six short video clips) and then summarise your understanding after each clip in a reflective listening statement that you offer back to them. \" class=\"wp-image-9290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Teams-task-898x1024.jpg 898w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Teams-task-263x300.jpg 263w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Teams-task-768x876.jpg 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Teams-task-1347x1536.jpg 1347w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Teams-task-1796x2048.jpg 1796w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Teams-task.jpg 1962w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 898px) 100vw, 898px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beauty of using MS Teams to record the task was that students can make use of the AI features that analyse their pitch, tone, speed, and clarity of their voice. It also gave them unlimited attempts to record the response before submitting to the course instructor for analysis. The other great advantage is that MS Teams is fully compatible with Blackboard Ultra. <a href=\"https:\/\/sotonac.sharepoint.com\/:w:\/t\/iSolutionsEducationServices\/ERiLNFGA3bdPlVmw4tQqtmYBv6li9OypgX-EzvPPONnIpw?e=WXVR9r\">For a step-by-step guide on how to set up your own Teams-integrated task, we have created a guide you can follow.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>PowerPoint files<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many theories as to how effective PowerPoints can be when used as a teaching tool. However, it is a standard educational device that <em>can<\/em> be used to great educational effect. &nbsp;Kumar (as cited in <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/2331186X.2015.1127745\">Inoue-Smith, Y. (2016)<\/a> noted, \u201cContemporary college students are interested in learning through live demonstrations and active interactions rather than simple lectures; therefore, instructional technologies confer an advantage when used properly\u201d (p. 3). So let us look at some techniques at how to bring PowerPoint files to life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Layout:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most modern laptops, monitors and display screens are set to 16X9 aspect ratios (there are exceptions). Before the late 2000s, screens and therefore PowerPoint slides were set to 4&#215;3 aspect ratio. Ensure when designing your slides that you have your ratios set to 16&#215;9 to avoid black bars down either side (and it looks out of date).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"990\" height=\"412\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-1.jpg\" alt=\"Two computer monitors showing the difference between screen ratios: 16:9 is rectangular. 4:3 is more square shaped.\" class=\"wp-image-9291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-1.jpg 990w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-1-300x125.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-1-768x320.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 990px) 100vw, 990px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 1<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"513\" height=\"424\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-2.jpg\" alt=\"A 16:9 monitor with a 4:3 presentation. The key point is the two black rectangles down each side, highlighting how dated this looks.\" class=\"wp-image-9293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-2.jpg 513w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-2-300x248.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 513px) 100vw, 513px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 2<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Branding\/ Use of colour<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose your colours according to what your presentation is conveying. The University has its own <a href=\"https:\/\/sotonac.sharepoint.com\/teams\/Brand\/SitePages\/Visual-Identity\/ColourPalette.aspx\">brand colours<\/a> and Accessibility Matrix for University of Southampton Brand Colour Palette: <a href=\"https:\/\/matthewdeeprose.github.io\/matrix\/matrix.html\">https:\/\/matthewdeeprose.github.io\/matrix\/matrix.html<\/a>. For the PSIO2033 Healthy Discussions for Physiotherapy, the decision was made to follow NHS blue. A simple Google search revealed many HEX codes for NHS blues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"148\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-3-1024x148.jpg\" alt=\"Five rectangles all different shades of blue. Each shade has a different HEX code and name (NHS dark blue, NHS blue, NHS bright blue, NHS light blue, NHS aqua blue). \" class=\"wp-image-9292\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-3-1024x148.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-3-300x43.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-3-768x111.jpg 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-3-1536x222.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-3.jpg 1958w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 3<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note: CMYK colours are generally used for printing. For digital work (i.e., PowerPoint slides), use HEX codes (shown above).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By establishing what your primary HEX code\/s will be, you are ensuring consistency within your presentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In terms of your branding, you could choose to have the University of Southampton logo on each slide, adding brand identity and professionalism. To ensure consistency throughout your presentation (e.g., use of the same size and location on each slide), follow these instructions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Open Slide Master View<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open your PowerPoint presentation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Go to the&nbsp;<strong>View<\/strong>&nbsp;tab on the ribbon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select\u00a0<strong>Slide Master<\/strong>. This opens the master slide view, showing the master slide and all associated layouts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Select the Master Slide<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the left-hand pane, select the&nbsp;<strong>top-most slide<\/strong>&nbsp;(this is the master slide).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changes made here will apply to&nbsp;<strong>all slide layouts<\/strong>&nbsp;beneath it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Insert the Logo<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Go to the&nbsp;<strong>Insert<\/strong>&nbsp;tab.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select\u00a0<strong>Pictures<\/strong>\u00a0&gt; choose\u00a0<strong>This Device<\/strong>\u00a0(or another source).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select your logo image file and click&nbsp;<strong>Insert<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Position and Resize the Logo<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Drag the logo to your desired location (e.g., bottom-right corner).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resize it by dragging the corners while holding&nbsp;<strong>Shift<\/strong>&nbsp;to maintain proportions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensure Consistency<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Double-check the logo\u2019s position and size.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You can use&nbsp;<strong>guides<\/strong>&nbsp;(View &gt; Guides) to align it precisely.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Close Master View<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Once you&#8217;re happy with the placement, go to the&nbsp;<strong>Slide Master<\/strong>&nbsp;tab.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select\u00a0<strong>Close Master View<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also use Slide Master to set which font, size and other brand identities you wish to use. This ensures consistency and accuracy on each slide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Graphics<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although not always necessary, adding graphics (whether they be a labelled diagram or meme) adds interest. It is a great way to break up text and convey information in a different way. Compare the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"589\" height=\"440\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-4.jpg\" alt=\"The first of two PowerPoint slides. One is 4:3 and full of text. The other is 16:9 and consists of an image and speech bubble with text coming from the woman in the image. There is also a speaker button on the slide where the user can select to listen to the text.\" class=\"wp-image-9294\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-4.jpg 589w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-4-300x224.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 589px) 100vw, 589px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 4 &#8211; without graphics<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"779\" height=\"440\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-5.jpg\" alt=\"The second of two PowerPoint slides. One is 4:3 and full of text. The other is 16:9 and consists of an image and speech bubble with text coming from the woman in the image. There is also a speaker button on the slide where the user can select to listen to the text.\" class=\"wp-image-9295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-5.jpg 779w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-5-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-5-768x434.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 779px) 100vw, 779px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 5 &#8211; with graphics<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the above examples, Figure 5 has been further enhanced with the option to select the audio button and listen to the text being read by the person in the image.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, we take what <em>was<\/em> a question followed by three bullet point answers and change it to a graphics-based response (graphics \u2013 with ALT text and text):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"711\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image.png\" alt=\"A PowerPoint slide showing a person sitting in a chair speaking to a physiotherapist.\" class=\"wp-image-9169\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image.png 711w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 711px) 100vw, 711px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 6: the question<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"318\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-7-1024x318.jpg\" alt=\"The same picture as before but the physiotherapist is in colour and the rest is black and white. This highlights her speech bubble.\" class=\"wp-image-9296\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-7-1024x318.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-7-300x93.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-7-768x238.jpg 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-7.jpg 1466w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 6: one response; Figure 8: Alternative response<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By focusing on different parts of the image, you are helping to bring to life the information in the text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">NOTE: The ultimate responsibility of copyright is on the course author; some of the free image sites or other sources might not take any responsibility. Therefore, it is up to you to ensure you are complying with copyright conditions.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Animate<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let us not confuse the term \u2018PowerPoint animations\u2019 with the spinning text and bouncing images that were popular in the early 2000s! For this project, we are referring to the morph transition tool and how it can be used to replace a bullet point list. For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"127\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image-1-1024x127.png\" alt=\"Five slides showing different patients and their issues described in one sentence. \" class=\"wp-image-9170\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image-1-1024x127.png 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image-1-300x37.png 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image-1-768x95.png 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/01\/image-1.png 1432w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 9<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using the morph transition tool:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-10-1-1024x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-10-1-1024x150.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-10-1-300x44.jpg 300w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-10-1-768x113.jpg 768w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-10-1-1536x225.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/321\/2026\/05\/Figure-10-1.jpg 1958w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Figure 10: where the morph transition tool can be found on the ribbon<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can give the appearance of each coloured bar sliding across the screen, along with its corresponding graphic and text. By adding moving images, we are appealing to the part of the brain where visual information is processed. Microsoft has a <a href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/office\/use-the-morph-transition-in-powerpoint-8dd1c7b2-b935-44f5-a74c-741d8d9244ea\">step-by-step guide<\/a> on how to use the morph transition tool but a simple Google search will give you several guides as to how to use it more creatively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Interactions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.scribd.com\/document\/492765989\/file\">Edgar Dale\u2019s Cone of Experience 1969<\/a>, we can see that interaction has a higher knowledge retention rate than reading alone. Therefore, it is important that as educators we insist on interactive learning over passive learning. We have a number of supported tools within the University that you can use to encourage interaction. Here are just a few of them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/knowledge-base\/vevox\/\">Vevox<\/a>: This digital tool enables us to create polls, quizzes, word clouds and to gauge understanding within a synchronous session. Results can be shared and analysed afterwards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/sotonac.sharepoint.com\/teams\/ThingLinkSupportGuide\">Thinglink<\/a>: This tool can be used either synchronously or asynchronously to create 360\u00b0 tours, branched scenarios, quizzes, 3D models, floorplans, images\/videos, infographics, tutorials, maps \/ aerial views, presentations, product demos, showroom\/gallery, timelines and VR experiences. The software is compatible with Blackboard Ultra.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Presenter mode<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When delivering content online, it is both more accessible and easier for you, the presenter, to <a href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/office\/share-slides-in-microsoft-teams-meetings-with-powerpoint-live-fc5a5394-2159-419c-bc59-1f64c1f4e470\">present PowerPoint within Teams<\/a>. This enables you to see both your notes and audience comments and reactions. It can also auto-generate closed captions which helps meet WCAG 2.2 requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Accessibility<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Accessibility should underpin everything we create, whether that be in Blackboard Ultra, PowerPoint or any of the other supported tools. At the University, we always aim for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/WCAG22\/\">WCAG 2.2<\/a> levels of accessibility. That could include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Always having closed captions (CC hereafter) on video clips (even if the video has no spoken word, add this in the closed caption so that a hearing-impaired learner is not trying to figure out why the CCs are not working!).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensuring images (whether photos, graphics or infographics) have alternative text (referred to as ALT text hereafter), which outline what information the image is trying to convey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose colour combinations carefully to ensure colour contrast is sufficient that people can read what is written (WCAG recommend a colour ratio of 4.5:1 when using standard text).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have produced a huge amount of <a href=\"https:\/\/elearn.soton.ac.uk\/article-categories\/staff-accessibility\/\">support pages for you<\/a> to use when creating your engaging resources, each of which will guide you through how to utilise accessibility checking features in our University tools, as well as how to create accessible designs in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have any questions about what has been covered in this article or you have an idea but are not sure how to go about executing it, please raise a ticket via Service Line for the attention of the Digital Learning Team and we will endeavour to work with you to empower you to be able to create your own engaging piece of learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This guide describes the steps you can take to create a course that is both engaging and adheres to the Blackboard Universal Standards (BUS)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":901,"featured_media":9303,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[16,191,303],"class_list":["post-9168","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news","tag-blackboard","tag-powerpoint","tag-resources"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>A recipe for creating engaging content in Blackboard Ultra - Digital Learning<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk\/digital-learning\/2026\/05\/19\/a-recipe-for-creating-engaging-content-in-blackboard-ultra\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" 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