Blackboard Ultra to Canvas Import Fixer

This Python script addresses common issues with importing Blackboard Ultra course export packages into Canvas by modifying the export package (ExportFile_*.zip).

Features

• Fixes Blackboard Assignments so they are correctly recognized as assignments in Canvas, preventing them from being mistakenly imported as quizzes.
• Resolves formatting issues in Blackboard Discussion Board descriptions, ensuring accurate import into Canvas.
• Preserves Discussion Boards' position within the main content of the course for proper placement and accessibility.
• Supports bulk processing of multiple archive files for efficiency.
• Provides an option to add placeholders for omitted LTI content, ensuring visual representation.
• Includes an option to prettify XML for easier manual inspection and debugging.

Requirements

• Python 3.x
• lxml library: Install with pip install lxml

Installation

1. Clone the repository: git clone https://github.com/Sneakers82/bb-ultra-to-canvas-import-fixer
2. Navigate to the project directory: cd bb-ultra-to-canvas-import-fixer
3. Install required libraries: pip install -r requirements.txt

Usage

1. Place Blackboard course export files (ExportFile_*.zip) in the IN folder.
2. Run the script: python main.py
3. Processed files will be saved in the OUT folder with a PATCHED_ prefix.

Considerations

• Input files remain unmodified: The script generates new output files, which will occupy additional storage space equal to the size of the input files. Ensure you have sufficient disk space available before processing.
• Synchronous processing: Files are processed one at a time. For large batches (e.g., thousands of files), the script may take a significant amount of time to complete.
• Error handling not yet implemented: The script may fail if it encounters a badly formatted export package. However, all files written to the output directory should be valid and properly processed.

Options

Prettifies XML output for easier manual inspection.

• -p or --pretty: Makes XML output more readable by formatting it with proper indentation and spacing.

Adds placeholders for LTI content to ensure it is included during the Canvas import process.

• -l or --lti: Re-labels LTI content in the export package with placeholders so that the items are included during the Canvas import process. Without this option, LTI content is omitted entirely during import.
  • The placeholders allow the LTI content to be visually represented after migration, helping you identify where the links were originally placed.
  • Note: The migrated LTI links are not functional and will need to be deleted and recreated manually in Canvas.

Example:

Run the script with both options:

python main.py -p -l

Future Updates

• Implement asynchronous processing to reduce runtime for large batches.
• Enhance modularity for easier extension.
• Add error handling for malformed export packages.