Bb Annotate - new Blackboard inline marking tool

About this page

Last updated: 25th August 2020

This page contains information about the new Blackboard inline marking tool, Bb Annotate, which was made available from 10th August 2020.  

What is Bb Annotate?

Bb Annotate is a new tool in Blackboard for feedback annotations, which is replacing Box View. Bb Annotate provides much greater functionality for marking than Box View, including improved options for freehand drawing, a sidebar summary view, and the ability to add text, images or stamps (such as a tick) directly on assignments.

When will Bb Annotate be available?

Bb Annotate was made available from 10th August.  

How can I see a demo or find out more?

Watch Blackboard's 2 minute video overview, or have a look at the support page.

If you have any questions please contact the Digital Education Office.

Does this change affect Turnitin assignments?

No this only affects Blackboard assignments.

Will we be able to use the Content Library for reusable comments?

Not at present. This feature is only available to Blackboard SAAS (Software as a Service) customers.

What has happened to my previous annotations?

Existing annotations created through Box view (Blackboard's previous annotation tool) have been migrated to Bb Annotate.

Can I use my touch device or pen-enabled device to mark?

Bb Annotate functions very well with touch devices and pen-enabled devices. For certain touch enabled devices, the Blackboard Instructor app is recommended.

How do I save comments in Bb Annotate?

Typed annotation comments will not be saved until you click Comment after typing. Closing the page, moving to a different student or allowing the page to time out before saving in this way will result in lost comments. After they have been saved, comments cannot be edited (but can be copied and pasted into a new comment).