Different grading schemes sometimes call for different uses of columns in Blackboard. Average calculated columns can be useful in averaging a group of columns that each have the same number of points possible. This is done by adding the total number of points and dividing that number by the number of columns.
Important: An Average calculated column is not the total of all points earned divided by the total points possible. If that is the type of column that you’re looking for then the Total calculated column with the Primary Display set to percentage is the right column to choose.
For instructions on creating an Average column, please visit Blackboard Help.
Important Note: We usually think of an average as the total number of points earned divided by the total number of points possible. However, in Blackboard when we create an Average calculated column, Blackboard adds up the points of all columns and divides that total by the number of columns. This is useful if every column has the same points possible, but it becomes problematic when you have quiz grades that are worth 10 points each mixed with test grades that are worth 100 points each.
Setting the Primary Display of the columns from which the average is being calculated will allow you to average the scores together without the columns which have lower possible points bringing down the average. This, however, does make every column of equal value in the final calculation. So, a test grade column will be worth the same as a quiz or homework grade column.
Example: A scenario in which the Average column might be useful would be when you want to create a column that adds all of your quiz grades, which are worth the same number of points, and divides them by the number of quizzes. This average column could then be used in a weighted column to produce a final grade in which the average of all your quiz grades is worth 10% of the final grade.