Custom Instructions vs. Assessment Descriptions

You may find the following explanation of the differences between an assessment "Description" and "Custom Instructions" beneficial.

“Custom Instructions” as labeled by Blackboard may be different than expected. It is easy to expect “Custom Instructions” to show up on the Assessments page before students begin assessments. The fact is, “Custom Instructions” don’t appear until the students starts the assessment.

In order for notes or instructions regarding the assessment to show before the assessment is begun (on the Assessments page) enter them using the Description field (near the top of the assessment properties page) rather than the Custom Instructions field (at the bottom of the assessment properties page).

Assessment properties are accessed via the ActionLink icon using the Edit Properties option. “Custom Instructions” appear inside the assessment (see the area accented in green).

Descriptions appear on the Assessments page, outside the assessment, that is, before the assessment is begun.

To enter either a Description or Custom Instructions select the Edit Properties option from the specific assessment's ActionLink icon (see below).

The Description field is near the top and the Custom Instructions section is near the bottom.

Thanks to Davy Jones for documenting this information.