Dear Colleagues,

We are very pleased to inform you that we will be upgrading our Learning Management System (LMS) from Blackboard Original to Blackboard Ultra. The intention is for all modules to be hosted on Blackboard Ultra for the beginning of the academic year 2025/26. In preparation for this, the transition to Blackboard Ultra will involve copying all existing Blackboard module content into the upgraded version of the LMS over the next eight months so as to be ready for the academic year 2025/26. This decision is part of our ongoing commitment to provide the best possible tools and resources to support our teaching and learning community.

Why are we upgrading to Blackboard Ultra?

Trinity’s LMS is woven into the fabric of teaching practice, student learning, and the administrative aspects of teaching and learning. Trinity is upgrading the LMS with the aim of providing an engaging, next-generation teaching and learning experience for all students at Trinity.

Blackboard Ultra will enhance the user experience for both staff and students through

  • improved usability and accessibility
  • enhanced features and functionality
  • continuous updates and support
  • improved analytics and reporting
  • enhanced collaboration and communication
  • modern mobile-friendly design 

When will the upgrade take place?

We have Blackboard Ultra already running in College, and it is already being used in a number of test courses. From now until the end of this current academic year (2024/25), we will be providing training, support and materials to enable you in the transition to this new system. From September 2025, Blackboard Ultra will be in place for all college and college modules which were available in Blackboard will be available in Blackboard Ultra. 

We will be providing more information in terms of training, support and resources to make the upgrade as easy as possible for you. 

Prof Vincent Wade                                                                  Prof Martine Smith

Senior Lecturer & Dean of Undergraduate Studies                Dean of Graduate Studies

An tOllamh Vincent Wade                                                       An tOllamh Martine Smith

Léachtóir Sinsearach agus Déan an Léinn Fochéime              Déan an Léinn Iarchéime