In most of my classes the students are the same way, so I review the syllabus at the start of every week. While some need regiment, others need to be let go of.
Hi Ian,
Good advice because many schools are going to a standardized format so once you get their format you can put your course specific material in it and you are good to go.
Gary
Each school I have taught required a different type of Syllabus. I can't count how many times I have made one only to find that I have to redo it because of a schools requirements. Ask for a good sample syllabus when you teach at a new school.
Hi Sarah,
Good strategy for your own professional growth. Teaching is the opportunity to learn twice--once as a student and then again as you prepare as a teacher.
Gary
The students can use this as a roadmap, a reminder, a calender and a well written syllabus is also a good way to keep the students from "using" excuses for not keeping up and knowing what is expected of them day to day, week by week and through the term.
This sounds like a great idea. I do use a weekly calendar, and remind students at the end of each week what is coming up the following week. I think that I will try to have them follow along with the syllabus as I do so, and start the new week with the same process.
Syllabus are the guidelines of what will be covered in the course being taught. Guidelines for grades, curricula, for both student and instructor. At the end of the course the self reflection of the instructor should be, Did i review and educate the students on all the subjects listed? The answer needs to be yes.
I am in the process of developing my lesson plans from the syllabus, I am finding discrepancies that I initially felt were unimportant. I am now realizing that the development of the syllabus was done by those who already experienced the pros and cons. I actually am enjoying the reading and learning I am getting from the subject matter. It is good to expand our own horizons, that which have not used, we loose. Important fact to remember...
Sarah
I believe reviewing the syllabus every week is a great practice. To expand on that practice, one may also adapt certain syllabi to each different type of group of students that they may have for multiple classes.
Having a well prepared syllabus is critical to the success of the course being taught. It includes crucial information necessay to guide and assist the student as well as the instructor through the course.
Hi Patricia,
So true. This is why the syllabus has to be well done if it is going to serve the purpose for which it is designed. A sloppy incomplete syllabus does more damage than good when starting a new class.
Gary
The syllabus is often the "life blood" of a student. As long as they know what is expected, and the syllabus is followed their comfort and learning will advance. It gives the student insight to the expected content of the class.
I think of my syllabus as the roadmap to success. If the syllabus is not fully understandable the students will fail. Their roadmap has an obstacle in the way--what is the obstacle? Making sure you ask yourself if I were the student would I understand what is being asked and required.
Agreed! It's a roadmap. How can a student measure success if they don't know where they are going?
A well-prepared syllabus helps the students and the teacher both understand the expectations, goals, and outcomes required in the course. It is important to resolve any unanswered questions before the course begins. Also defining expectations up front is paramount!
A well-prepared syllabus states which topics would be covered, due dates for assignments and projects, and course policies. In addition, it allows for an explanation of the grading criteria by demonstrating the percentage of exams, assignments, projects, and quizzes toward the course grade.
Ditto. I always add my personal information and breakdown the expected classwork by dates.
Hi Emilie,
Good point about understanding the directions and information your students needs. By knowing the backgrounds they bring to the class you can more accurately target the information you are sharing with them. This results in less confusion, frustration, and more focused effort.
Gary
Hi Linda,
Great point and example of why we must do this for our students. We are giving them a road map to follow so the directions must be clear if they are going to reach their destination.
Gary
Most of my students are parents and they understand the imporance of dates and what is due so I use my syllabus to have all of my information (availability, phone number, email) as well as all of the expectations/activities for class time as well as all of the homework and when it is due for the entire 5 week mod.
