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[wanna_writemore]

As I write quizzes in Blackboard, is there a way to put the questions in so that they form a "quiz bank" and I can mix and match them later in other ways?  I know this was possible in a previous version of BB that I used at another univ.  My current version (I think) is BB Vista 4.

Or do I just have to write separate quizzes and then re-type the questions and answers when I want to use them again in future semesters?

I tried the search function, but couldn't find answers to this particular question.

[magistra]

You tried the search....oh, the naivete.  Next you'll think "help" will help!   Ha ha ha!  You must think they actually want you to use the damn software!

Do you have Blackboard or Blackboard Vista?  Because that's an important distinction.

If you have Vista, you can import and export information.  It's a pain, but I've done it.  That's how you can preserve it from course to course.  Of course, if you're rolling over the entire website, that'll also work -- just hide the quiz until you're read for it.

I think you might want to check out the question database, but I'm not sure.  What kind of quizzes do you use?

[dept_geek]

Rather than creating a test, create a pool. Then you can choose questions from the pool to make tests. You can also export the pools to use in other BB sites.

As your admin or local geek where this is. But more than likely, you'll find it in the control panel, under pool manager.

hth.

[wanna_writemore]

Under Assessments, I found a "question database."  I think this is what I need.  Thanks.

[magistra]

Ah, you have Vista.  Welcome to Hell!  I'm right there with you.

[choirguy]

If you have access to (or can purchase) Respondus (http://www.respondus.com/), you should be able to do what you are wanting.

[movingon]

Ah, you have Vista.  Welcome to Hell!  I'm right there with you.

OMG!  I'm in hell, too!  Well, at least I'm in good company...and as Kathy Griffin says, "It's not even that hot!"

[noof_]

C'mon folks. Is it really that bad?

Yes, the programs suck. Frankly, I think the computer programming rejects end up taking jobs working on educational software ... whatev.

Anyway, aren't these programs better than the old days? I like that I no longer have a line out the door the last week of class <what's my grade on ...; what do I need to make on the final?>. Students can now see their grades in Blackboard/Vista/WebCT. They can take timed exams and get their grade without contacting me or my even being present. They can talk to each other, keep journals, and submit assignments without my having to watch the clock.

Not quite heaven, but not quite hell; just keepin' it real.

[magistra]

See, that never bothered me.  Students never come to office hours -- except if they want to see their grades.  You get 'em in the door, then get them talking about study habits, course material, all that.  Works best if you have small classes.

Movingon -- Have a beer on me! 

Yeah, it really is that bad.  Vista in particular, and since we can't trust our server not to go down, it's especially perilous.  I spent hours of my life wrestling with Respondus last night and never did get it to work.  The instructions don't match reality.  And apparently, if you set up a survey you can't role it over to a quiz, no way, no how.  Thanks, software guys!