Edlink's integration with Blackboard ensures seamless synchronization of rostering, coursework, and grades while supporting Single Sign-On (SSO). This document outlines the core functionalities, limitations, and use cases for integrating Blackboard with Edlink.
Single Sign-On (SSO)
Edlink supports Single Sign-On (SSO) via Blackboard, allowing users to log in with their Blackboard credentials.
Rostering
The integration synchronizes core rostering data from Blackboard to Edlink, including:
- People: Students, teachers, and other staff mapped to Edlink's
Personmodel. - Classes: Blackboard course sections are directly mapped to Edlink's
Classmodel. - Enrollments: Enrollment data from Blackboard is dynamically updated in Edlink to reflect user associations with classes.
Extended Rostering
Edlink does not currently support extended rostering models (e.g., attendance, incidents) for Blackboard, as Blackboard's API does not expose these data models.
Coursework and Grades
Blackboard's integration with Edlink fully supports coursework and grade synchronization:
- Assignments: Assignments created in Blackboard are synced to Edlink with metadata such as due dates, descriptions, and grading configurations.
- Submissions: Student submissions, including multiple attempts and states, are reflected in Edlink's data model.
- Grades: Grades linked to assignments are synchronized, ensuring alignment between platforms.
Enrichment with Blackboard
Blackboard can be configured as either a primary or secondary data source:
- Primary Source: Use Blackboard as the main source for rostering, assignments, and grading when it serves as the central system for classroom management.
- Secondary Source: Blackboard can supplement data from other systems (e.g., SIS), enriching classroom and assignment information. In this configuration, assignments and grades remain tied to the primary system.
Primary vs. Secondary Configuration
- Primary Configuration: Blackboard should be the primary source if the objective is to manage coursework and evaluate grades directly within Blackboard.
- Secondary Configuration: Configure Blackboard as a secondary source when other systems contain more comprehensive data, and Blackboard's role is limited to SSO or supplementary information.
Special Features
- Deep Linking: Blackboard content, such as assignments and resources, can be deep-linked, enabling direct access through Edlink-connected platforms.
- Time Zone Awareness: Time zones for schools and classes are respected during synchronization to ensure accurate scheduling and deadlines.