How can I disable Course Messages in my Blackboard course?
Problem
Students are still attempting to communicate with instructors through Course Messages, the internal Blackboard message tool, even though the instructor requires students to use email.
Course messages cannot be completely disabled in our Blackboard environment because of the Messages page in Ultra Base Navigation.
Solutions
OPTION 1: Add communication requirements to the course syllabus: Ask that students only use email for official communications about course expectations, assessments, and grades.
OPTION 2: Hide the Course Messages link in the Tool Panel
Click on Tool Panel, on the course menu (it’s a default area unless it has been manually removed).
Click Hide Link next to Course Messages. This will hide Course Messages from students within this course.