Journals: A Teacher's Guide

Journaling in Blackboard Ultra is a great way to help students learn more deeply, think critically, and grow personally. It gives students a place to reflect on what they’ve learned and connect it to their own lives. Journals can make learning more engaging and meaningful for everyone in the classroom.

Why Use Journals?

1. Helps Students Remember: Writing about what they’ve learned helps students remember it better.
2. Builds Thinking Skills: Journals encourage students to analyze ideas and connect them to other things they know.
3. Encourages Personal Growth: Reflecting on their work helps students see their progress and feel more confident.
4. Supports Creativity: Journals are a safe space for students to share ideas and be creative.
5. Helps Teachers Understand Students: Reading journal entries gives teachers a better idea of how students are doing and what they need help with.

How to Use Journals in Blackboard Ultra

1. Start with Fun Prompts: Ask questions like, “What’s one thing you learned today that surprised you?” or “How can you use this idea in your life?” Use Blackboard Ultra’s Design Assistant to generate prompts that fit your lessons.
2. Make It a Habit: Have students write in their journals regularly, like at the end of a lesson or each week.
3. Let Students Be Creative: Allow them to include drawings, charts, or even videos in their journals.
4. Respect Privacy: Remind students that journals are personal and that your feedback will focus on ideas, not grammar or spelling.
5. Simple Grading: Use a system like complete/incomplete so students aren’t stressed about being perfect. Give credit for effort and thoughtfulness.

What Makes Blackboard Ultra Journals Special?

1. Private Space: Only the student and teacher can see the entries unless you decide to share them with the class.
2. Easy to Use: Students can write, format, and add pictures or videos right in their journals.
3. Feedback Options: You can comment directly on entries to guide students or clear up any confusion.
4. Track Progress: Journals let you see how students’ ideas grow over time.

Tips for Teachers

1. Explain Clearly: Tell students why they’re writing journals, how often they should write, and what you’re looking for.
2. Give Helpful Feedback: Respond to their ideas to keep them motivated and thinking deeply.
3. Encourage Honesty: Let students know it’s okay to be honest and creative.
4. Adjust as Needed: Use what you learn from journals to improve your lessons.
5. Celebrate Growth: Point out how much students are learning and improving.

Learn how to use Journals in Blackboard Ultra.