FACULTY: Create a Blackboard Test from a Previous Document

Use these instructions to learn how to format a document and use the Blackboard Test Generator tool to convert it to a Blackboard test.

If you have already created a test in a separate document, instead of copying every question, Blackboard can import properly formatted files to make the process easier. These instructions will help you to format your file so it can be converted into a Blackboard-compatible file. BSU does not host this converter, but our staff has tested and used it.  

Format text for the Blackboard Test Generator tool:

First, make sure your document is properly formatted. For instructions on how to make sure you document is properly formatted, check out this article. Once you have properly formatted your text, navigate to Blackboard Test Generator to begin.  

1. Enter your Test Name
2. Type or paste your questions into the main text area
3. Make sure that the questions are properly formatted:
   • Questions start with a number followed by a period or parenthesis.
   • Answers start with a letter followed by a period or parenthesis.
   • Insert a "*" in front of the correct answer
   • If you enter questions/answers without numbers/letters, then questions must be tagged (MC for multiple choice, TF for true/false, MA for multiple answer, etc.).
   • Separate your questions with one blank line.
   • Avoid leaving blank rows, except when you are going on to the next question or answer.
4. Select Generate Test Questions and ensure the formatting is correct and all of the questions have a green background (questions that are in an incorrect format will have a red background).
5. Once all of the questions are properly formatted and have a green background, select "Download Test Questions" or "Download Question Pool."

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Set up using Question Banks

1. Log into Blackboard and select your course.
2. In the side panel in the right of your screen, under Details & Actions, select "Manage Banks."
3. Click the "+" in the middle of the screen.
4. Select "Import from File" and choose your Test (should be a ".zip" file).
5. You can now click on the imported Test in your course's Question Banks and make any necessary changes like assigning points, automated feedback, etc.

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Adding your Test to Blackboard:

Uploading Test Questions: 

1. Navigate to Course Content in your Content section
2. Hover over the section between other content and select the "+" icon, then click "+ Create"
3. Under Assessment, select "Test"
4. Select the "+" icon, then click on "Upload questions from file"
5. Select the file you created with the Blackboard Test Generator Tool (should be a ".txt" file)
6. Give your test a name and adjust the Assessment Settings as needed
7. Click "Save"

Uploading a Question Pool:

1. Navigate to Course Content in your Content section
2. Hover over the section between other content and select the "+" icon, then click "+ Create"
3. Under Assessment, select "Test"
4. Select the "+" icon, then click on "Reuse Questions"
5. Browse through all your Question Pools, and select the Questions that you intend to add to this Test.
6. Select "Copy Questions."
7. Adjust the settings as needed.
8. Click "Save."