Journals

Journals in Original Course View

A Journal is a self-reflective tool for students. Only the student and the faculty member are able to view or add comments to Journal entries. However, the faculty member has the option to make Journals "public" so all students enrolled in the same course can read all entries made to a Journal topic. Group Journals are also available and the entries can be read by all Group members as well as the faculty member.

When a faculty member creates a Journal, they have the option to allow students to be able to edit or delete entries, as well as whether the Journal will be graded.  If the Journal is to be graded, a column is automatically created in the Grade Center.

Note:  If a student is removed from the course, the student's Journal will be deleted, along with all entries and comments.

Screenshot highlighting the process for creating journals

Create a Journal

  1. From the Control Panel click Course Tools
  2. Click Journals
  3. Click Create Journal 
  4. Provide a name and description

Journals in Ultra Course View

Status: Available

Journals are personal spaces for students to communicate privately with you. Students can also use journals as a self-reflective tool. They can post their opinions, ideas, and concerns about the course, or discuss and analyze course-related materials.

Create a Journal

  1. On the Course Content page, click the plus sign (+) wherever you want to add a journal and click Create in the menu
  2. In the side panel, under Participation and Engagement, click Journal
  3. Provide a name in the upper left and type instructions in the text box
  4. Click the gear icon in the upper right to configure settings, such as enabling grading
  5. Make the Journal visible or use Release Conditions to set when the Journal should be visible

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Technical Support and Student Help

Division of IT Service Desk

815-753-8100
servicedesk@niu.edu

Teaching Support and Faculty Help

Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning

815-753-0595
citl@niu.edu

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