New bCourses Feature: Multiple Discussion Due Dates (Checkpoints)

January 5, 2026

Starting for the Spring 2026 semester, instructors can use a new feature in bCourses called Discussion Checkpoints to set multiple due dates for graded discussions.

The graded Discussion Checkpoints feature enables instructors to support different stages of a discussion, such as initial posts and follow-up replies — setting different due dates and points for each stage. Beyond the initial response to a discussion prompt, instructors can require additional replies to peers and set a different due date for those responses. This feature is intended to allow for more structured participation in bCourses Discussions, ensuring students meet deadlines for each required step in the discussion.

Learn more about Discussion Checkpoints and use the step-by-step instructional guide in this KB article. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact our support team at bcourseshelp@berkeley.edu or schedule a 1:1 bCourses consultation.

Discussion Checkpoints in bCourses

Discussion Checkpoints in bCourses

This video provides step-by-step instructions for UC Berkeley instructors on how to set up and grade discussions with multiple due dates using the Discussion Checkpoints feature in bCourses.