How can you create an inclusive Blackboard course for students with mental health conditions?

1 Understand your students

The first step to creating an inclusive Blackboard course is to understand your students and their mental health conditions. You can do this by conducting a pre-course survey, asking for feedback, or providing opportunities for self-disclosure. This will help you to identify the challenges, strengths, and preferences of your students, as well as any accommodations or adjustments they may need. You can also use the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to guide your course design and delivery, which aims to provide multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression for all learners.

2 Communicate clearly and consistently

The second step to creating an inclusive Blackboard course is to communicate clearly and consistently with your students. You can do this by setting clear expectations, providing timely and constructive feedback, and using various modes and channels of communication. You can also use Blackboard's features and tools to facilitate communication, such as announcements, discussion boards, emails, and chat. You should also be mindful of your tone, language, and style of communication, and avoid using jargon, sarcasm, or insensitive remarks that may trigger or offend your students.

3 Provide flexibility and choice

The third step to creating an inclusive Blackboard course is to provide flexibility and choice for your students. You can do this by offering different options and alternatives for learning activities, assessments, and deadlines. You can also use Blackboard's adaptive release and groups functions to customize the learning experience for different students based on their needs and preferences. You should also be open and responsive to requests for extensions, accommodations, or modifications from your students, and respect their privacy and confidentiality.

5 Build community and connection

The fifth step to creating an inclusive Blackboard course is to build community and connection among your students. You can do this by creating a positive and respectful learning environment, where students feel valued, accepted, and supported. You can also use Blackboard's collaborative and interactive features and tools, such as blogs, wikis, podcasts, or video conferencing, to foster social presence, interaction, and feedback. You should also facilitate group work and peer learning, and celebrate diversity and achievements.

6 Evaluate and improve

The final step to creating an inclusive Blackboard course is to evaluate and improve your course design and delivery. You can do this by collecting and analyzing data and feedback from your students, such as surveys, quizzes, or reflections. You can also use Blackboard's analytics and reports functions to monitor and measure your students' progress, engagement, and performance. You should also reflect on your own teaching practices and experiences, and seek feedback from your peers or mentors. You should also be open to change and improvement, and implement the necessary actions to enhance your course.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?