This article will list frequently asked questions about Blackboard’s AI Design Assistant. The AI Design Assistant is only available in Blackboard Ultra courses.

FAQs

Q. What is the AI Design Assistant?

A. The AI Design Assistant is a suite of tools integrated into Blackboard Ultra that helps instructors streamline course creation. It can generate course structures, assignments, rubrics, test questions, and also suggest images from Unsplash to enhance visual engagement. 

Q. How does it help instructor users with their courses?

A. The AI Design Assistant reduces the time and effort needed to build or revise courses. It supports: 

• Auto-generating learning modules based on course titles and descriptions. 

• Creating rubrics aligned with learning outcomes. 

• Suggesting test questions and building question banks 

• Inserting relevant images to improve course aesthetics 

• Drafting discussion prompts and journal topics.

Q. Can I customize the AI-generated content? 

A. Yes. All content generated by the AI Design Assistant is fully editable. You can adjust complexity levels (from early primary to PhD), modify language, and tailor the structure to fit your course goals. 

Q. Is it safe and ethical to use?

A. Anthology has partnered with Microsoft to provide this service. Only limited course information is provided to Microsoft for the Azure OpenAI Service, and Microsoft does not use UA data to improve the OpenAI models. You can find more information about Anthology’s Trustworthy AI Principles and Microsoft’s data privacy practices in this article: Blackboard Help Center: AI Design Assistant 

Q. Must I disclose my use of the AI Design Assistant?

AIDA is a tool to support your work, not a substitute for your knowledge. Remember that your unique expertise is what drives the course content. Please use your best judgment in deciding whether to disclose your use of AIDA. Factors to weigh include the extent to which AIDA was used and the work product that was created. If you choose to disclose, the key is to frame it in a way that highlights how the AIDA was used as a tool to enhance the curriculum, not to replace your expertise.

Q. What are some best practices for using the AI Design Assistant? 

A. Start with a clear course objective or theme to guide module generation. 

• Review and revise AI-generated content to ensure alignment with your teaching style and academic standards. 

• Use the tool to brainstorm ideas, not as a replacement for pedagogical judgment. 

• Incorporate accessibility checks to ensure content is inclusive. 

Q. Where can I find training or support?

A. CIT is offering workshops and resources about AIDA. UA’s Teaching Academy also offers AI-focused sessions and resources. You can also explore Anthology’s help pages and case studies for additional guidance. 

Q. Are there any limitations or restrictions? 

A. While the AI Design Assistant is approved for use, it should not be used with sensitive or restricted data. Always verify content accuracy and appropriateness before publishing.