Create a forum called "Questions, Concerns and Problems". Define what contributions are appropriate for the forum. Explain that if one student has a question or concern about an assignment or a reading, it is probably shared by others.

In the syllabus, clearly define where students should post their questions related to the course. State that only a personal problem, such as an individual student's concern about a grade, should be e-mailed directly to you.

If a student does e-mail you with a general question or concern, reply in the forum instead of directly to the student. Eventually, students will learn to post concerns in the forum.

Also, have assignments submitted to the assignment feature, the discussion forum or the digital drop box.

Log in to Blackboard
Click on the course you want to modify in the My Courses section
Click on Control Panel at left

Click Discussion Board in the Course Tools section
Click Add Forum
Enter a Title
Enter a Description
Check Forum Settings to define how forum may be used
Check Forum User Settings to define user access level
Click Submit when done