Workaround: Forcing Blackboard LTI Links in Text to Open in a New Window

Workaround: Forcing Blackboard LTI Links in Text to Open in a New Window

When embedding our resources via the Blackboard text editor, there's no option to set these to “open in new window”. By following the steps below, you can ensure that inline LTI links in Blackboard always open in a new window. This works in both Original Course View and Ultra Course View.

Step 1: Add the LTI Tool as a Standalone Item

  • In your course content area:

    • Original View: Go to Build Content > [LearnSci Tool].

    • Ultra View: Go to + > Create > Teaching Tools > LTI Item.

  • Select an activity using the content selector and add it to your course

  • In the settings for the activity, tick Open in New Window.

  • Save the item.

Step 2: Grab the Launch URL

  • In the course content list:

    • Hover over the LTI item.

    • Right-click and choose Copy Link Address (or similar, depending on your browser).

  • This URL contains the secure LTI launch with the correct Blackboard parameters.

Step 3: Insert the Link Inline in Your Text

  • Edit the text block where you want the link.

  • Highlight the text (e.g. Launch activity here).

  • Click the Insert/Edit Link button in the editor toolbar.

  • Paste the copied URL and tick Open in New Window.

  • Save.

Step 4 (Optional): Hide the Standalone Item

  • If you don’t want the standalone item to appear in your course content list, set it to Hidden from students.

  • The inline link will still work because it points to the same launch URL.

✅ End Result

  • Students see only the inline link inside your content.

  • Clicking it opens the LTI tool in a new window/tab.

  • This avoids the missing ellipses issue and gives you control over window behavior.