A detailed and well-prepared syllabus that communicates the expectations of the course to students is extremeley important.
Students need to have structure in expectations and the syllabus will provide for this.
Students also need to see a "plan" and objectives for the course so that they know where they are going.
It answers all of the burning questions that students have, as well as helps to put them at ease; its a road map that they can refer to often to help them discover where they are, and where they are going.
Students
Young adults and mature adults appreciate and want to see not only the learning objectives, meausrements used, and resourse/support materials, but they also want to have clearly defined "boundaries" within which to learn, study, and work.
A good syllabus is easy to read (each section clealry outlined and explained) but comporehensive. I've found the use of "bullets' vs lengthy paragraphs to be more readily understand and accepted by my students.
Hi Ariana,
Good strategy to keep the students informed about deadlines and assignments. You are right the is always a lot of anxiety when moving from setting, class or instructor to another. By posting on the class calendar on the internet or giving them a class calendar you will do much to reduce the stress they feel.
Gary
Yes, I do agree as well. A signature sheet at the end of the document provides the formal climate the syllabus merits. Signing a document puts students at a different set of mind, one that will encourage them to read the document thoroughly ensuring that contents are clear and no questions were left without an asnwer.
Students most often ask for clarification on test dates and homework due dates. They also ask about what is included in the homework assignment since I usually have them turn in various things at the end of the week.
When I get new students they are mostly nervous about starting with a new instructor and as the days go by their anxiety decreases. It is difficult for them to make a transition from one instructor to another. They have to learn new ways of doing things since every instructor has a different style of teaching. My fellow instructors and I try to keep things as uniform as possible to help students cope with the change.
Hi Barbara,
I like your method of including the information about submitting assignments within the course information and syllabus. As you say students need to start to pay attention to this information as students so they will be attuned to following information and meeting deadlines as workers. This is often missed in the training process by students and they get shocked out in the work world when their supervisors hold them to deadlines and project completions.
Gary
Hi Ariana,
What are the most often ask questions by students after they look over the syllabus? What do they seem most concerned about getting started in the course?
Gary
A good syllabus can help an instructor to be clear about the expectations of the class and to set a tone for the class. If I expect students to be excellent in their learning processes, one way I can communicate that expectation is through my syllabus.
I also include detailed instructions about when and how they need to submit their assignments. If they don't follow the directions, they lose points on the assignment. I have found that many students do not pay attention to directions. This is an essential skill in college and in life. Including this information in the syllabus clearly communicates their responsibilities and the consequences.
It helps students understand classroom policies, deadlines and instructor expectations. If information is given to students in writing it avoids any misunderstandings between the instructor and students.
So, that you have a well prepared course for the students. It makes it easier for you and for them to follow week by week.Then there can be no excuses when they say that they didn't know what they needed to do, you have the syllabus to back you up.
Cheryl
Having everything broken down, from what you are planning to teach to what you expect from them, leaves no possibilities of confusion by the end of the course. This also allows student to focus on content rather than being confused on week to week basis.
Hi Gina,
You make an excellent point about why a syllabus needs to be well thought out and well laid out. This is a life line for students so it needs to be clear for them as they get settled into a new course and the stress level is high.
Gary
I have found that not only is your syllabus a great tool for you as an instructor, but also very relied upon by the student. I notice each term how students are very anxious to get the syllabus ahead of time so they can truly understand what is expected of them. Even students who may not be as organized or "ahead of the game" are concerned with getting the syllabus ahead of time, referring to it often, and using it as the class progresses. So if your syllabus is not detailed enough or inaccurate it will reflect on you as an instructor and how effective the class will be for the student.
I agree. I did like the idea that the last page of the syllabus has an area for the student's signature, indicating that they have read the syllabus and understand it. We do not currently use this "return contract" where I teach, but I am going to recommend it. The students suddenly become much more "interested" when their signature is required and makes them much more accountable. I think this also helps prepare them for the working world, as bids, estimates, etc., with clients become a similiar agreement.
Hi Ben,
Great to hear that you have had such a positive experience with the modules. I can tell by your responses in the forums that you are dedicated to being a good instructor as well as continuing your professional growth. You are going to be a top quality instructor by keeping the attitude of learning that you have. I wish you much success in the future. If you have any future questions please feel free to call on me and I will try to be of help.
Gary
Wow, I am caught back at what I am coming to understand about the syllabus... this thread has offer an incredible amount of insight to this subject,,,Not having taked any 4 year college course, especially any dealling with what things really are, I feel like someone has just pulled my head out of the sand and I see..needless to say I will view the first day syllabus presentation with alot more importance...many of you have offered much valuable insight as to how better comvey this item ,,and I will be forever greatfull. looking through these I dont feel adequate to add much...in responce to the thread,,,It is most important that the syllabus be well prepared to provide the most acurate picture of what is about to happen in my students lives for the next few days,,and degreed to defining the days and the sections thereof, so the student may adjust their thoughts and emotions on the upcoming activivies .
It keeps everyone organized and on point to complete the course in a manner which is consistent with the objectives states; it reduces student anxiety and provides clarity; students love clarity and it alleviates issues for you down the road if you have spent the requisite time preparing it. A wonderful road map for the course.
A well-prepared syllabus clearly explains to the students what is expected of them, should contain a calendar so that the students have an idea of what will be covered and when. It allows the students to stay on top if they miss a class. I always include "subject to change" because I like to see how the students work each semester. The important points of the syllabus must stay the same such as the ADA, my grading policy, academic integrity, and things of that nature, but I am flexible because what works one semester does not always work each semester. I want the students to be clear about the main points including attendance policy and late work.
Stacy
Hi Thomas,
Good point. Your comments serve to reinforce the need for a well prepared syllabus. With a poorly laid out one the students and instructor start off with a disadvantage that is hard to overcome.
Gary
