Creating a Syllabus That Fits Your Personality
I personally do not believe in using a standard syllabus and filling in blanks. I feel as though each instructor should be given a general template and be allowed to fill in information based on their personal expectations of the student in regard to polices from the institution.
It is more difficult for instructors to follow a standard syllabus and in turn it may seem to the students that they care less about the class because they are simply following standard procedure.
Although I agree that it is nice to put your own twist on a syllabus, I see the major benefit of a standard syllabus as encouraging consistency when the same class is taught by different instructors.
Victoria--
I agree that instructors should put their own personal touch on how the course is taught. Everyone brings someting special to that process. As long as the course outcomes are met, a hybrid is the best of both worlds.
Susan
I have worked with both standardized syllabi and created my own. I can see the benefits to both. My favorite apporach is actually a hybrid. I like having the offical course descriptions, learning outcomes, resources, and objectives. However, I also add my own expectations for the course as well. This includes everything from late work policies to how many assignments in each grade category students can expect. I find this really helps set the tone for the entire class on the first day.
I like having a syllabus as a guide but prefer to put my own twist to the course. I am happy my supervisor acknowledges instructors differences.
Steve--
Exactly! A syllabus is pretty much an agenda for meeting class outcomes. There are lots of additional 'sights' to see on the way to the final destination and that is where an instructor can add much value and personality.
Susan
I feel a syllabus is essential for a number of reasons. It gives the student a good picture of what will be covered, and thus a good idea of what kind of commitment needs to be made. It reveals the goals of the course, and can help someone decide if this course will meet their needs. True, it can act as an aid for a new instructor or even as a guide for a substitute if it becomes necessary, but everyone in class deserves to see what direction the course intends to take. Adding your own personality to it is one of the things that makes each course (or instructor) unique, interesting, and possibly even fun (for both student and instructor)!
Terry--
A syllabus is always good to ensure that the identified outcomes are met so students, regardless of the instructor, achieve the same baseline. Allowing faculty to also add their unique touch to how the material is presented is useful and rewarding for the students.
Susan
Following a syllabus is a useful tool if you are a new instructor.
