Teaching Guides & Resources > Course Design > Syllabus Design
“…increasingly the contemporary syllabus is becoming more like a legal document, full of all manner of exhortations, proscriptions, and enunciations of class and institutional policy –often in minute details that seem more appropriate for a courtroom than a classroom.”
Your syllabus is more than just a document—it's the first impression your students get of your course, setting the tone for the entire semester. Think of it as your course's first handshake, reflecting not only the content but also your enthusiasm and approachability. By incorporating engaging visuals and clear, friendly language, you create an inviting and informative guide that motivates and connects with students from day one.
Learner-Centered Syllabi
While syllabi are often thought of as a contract between the instructor and students. Its true purpose is to provide a framework for learning. As you reflect on your syllabus, try to avoid closing every possible permutation of a missed assignment and focus on setting the students up for success and providing them with what they need. The list below provides a guide to creating a learner centered syllabus.
Download printable version here.
First Impressions
- Clear and Welcoming Tone: Ensure the syllabus sets a positive tone and demonstrates a commitment to student-centered learning.
Overall Tone and Format
- Inclusive Language: Use inclusive and student-friendly language.
- Visual Appeal: Include visuals to enhance understanding and engagement.
Course and Instructor Information
- Contact Information: Provide clear and accessible contact details.
- Instructor Bio: Share a brief, relatable bio to build rapport.
Course Plan
- Learning Objectives: Clearly outline what students will learn.
- Assessment Methods: Explain how learning will be assessed.
- Schedule: Provide a detailed course schedule with important dates.
Student Support and Success
- Resources: List academic support resources available to students.
- Office Hours: Clearly state when and how office hours are held.
Communication and Feedback
- Communication Policy: Describe how and when students can contact you.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Outline how students will receive feedback on their work.
Course Policies
- Attendance and Participation: Clearly state expectations for attendance and participation.
- Late Work: Define the policy for late submissions.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
- Accommodation Statements: Include statements about disability accommodations and other inclusivity practices.
Required and Recommended Statements
- University Policies: Incorporate required university policy statements on academic integrity, accommodations, and other relevant topics.
Reflection and Continuous Improvement
- Review and Adapt: Regularly review and adapt your syllabus to enhance its effectiveness and inclusivity.
- Seek Feedback: Encourage and utilize student feedback to improve the syllabus.
