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Northern Illinois University

Teaching with Blackboard

Question Pools

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A test pool allows the INSTRUCTOR to create and search collections of questions. Questions can be grouped by any number of criteria, including topic, subject matter, question type or difficulty of question. A pool will generate an assessment with randomized questions selected by the INSTRUCTOR. Pools can be created from (1) new questions or (2) questions in existing tests or pools. Pools are most effective when there are large numbers of questions in one group. For example, one might have a pool of true/false questions, another of multiple choice and a third for fill in the blank. The instructor could then create an assessment drawing a specific number of questions from each of the question-type pools.

To create a pool

  • In the Control Panel click Assessment, then click Pool Manager and click Add Pool Name and describe the pool.
    1. Create new questions OR
    2. Select questions from existing pools or assessments
      question types
      1. Click GO if choosing existing questions
        from existing pool
      2. Search tests and pools listed
      3. Determine which type(s) of questions to select
      4. Select individual questions and click Submit
    Pools can be exported and imported into another course.
    • The export feature zips the assessment file.
    • To import an assessment: Control Panel, click Assessment, then click Pool Manager, click Import and browse for file and select a zipped file and click Submit
    • Pools can be modified just as any assessment

Blackboard Frequently Asked Questions FAQ


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Are you looking for more information related to Blackboard assessment tools? Review the answers to frequently asked questions regarding online assessment tools in Blackboard. Also, consider attending one of the upcoming Blackboard workshops.

Last Updated: 09/05/2007