May-Lin,
This is so important because it gets everyone started on the same page plus it outlines the course expectations. The syllabus is going to be their guide for the next few weeks so it needs to be clear and concise.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is crucial to have a well prepared syllabus on the first day of class. This document really sets the stage for the entire course. This document is a reference document that students use throughout the course. I think it's important to have instructor contact information and let them know that it is okay to call or email when they have questions. I think it is important to have course objectives so students know what they are working to accomplish in the class. I include chapter readings, assignments, quizzes, etc. on my syllabus so students have a little calendar or schedule to follow throughout the course.
Theresa,
By you taking this approach about how you use your syllabus you are also increasing the value of the syllabus to the students. They see you referring to it so they in turn start to use it for information, direction and polices and that helps to keep them informed about how the course is going to operate.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Mark,
Yes, it does. It gets everyone started off on the same page.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Shirley,
You make a number of great points about the value of a well prepared syllabus. A well prepared syllabus reduces anxiety and frustration by students since it answers the majority of their course questions. As a result they will feel comfortable in the class and can focus on asking questions that relate to the course content rather than logistical questions dealing with due dates.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I know that my syllabus is just as important to me as my students. It keeps me grounded and reminds me of the items that need to be discussed and what I need to develop with my students
It sets up the expectations of instructor for the students. The more clear the requirements, the more likely a person is to fulfill them.
I think it is very important for the students to have a syllabus. If you put all of your requirements on your syllabus then there shouldn't be any questions about due dates, attendance, lesson assignments, test, or quiz dates. I tell my students that they need to treat this as though this is their Bible.
I rely on my syllabus and my students also rely on the syllabus, they know exactly when things are due and exactly what I expect of them. Everything is there in black and white, therefor there is no questions.
A well-prepared syllabus is the best tool for the instructor. It will help guide the student and will give them guidance of what is expected of them. No excuses. It is written.
Jenaro,
Thank you for your analysis of the value that a well prepared syllabus has for students. You are right on target with how the syllabus should be used and the role it plays in getting students started off right in a new course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A well prepared syllabus provides several benefits. Yes I agree that it is a contract between faculty and the student body. But it is more then that. It is an important piece of communication between the student and instructor. Good communication between faculty and the student body is a must if we are to have a conducive learning environment.
It outlines the basics of what is expected of the student and, the same way a textbook is selected, should be written in a clear and easily understandable way.
Every class policy should be clearly explained, such as lateness policies or absence policies. In addition, I begin my first day of class reviewing the entire syllabus with the students and in the event a student is added at late registration, I offer to schedule a meeting with the student before or after class to discuss the syllabus. I find that having this meeting prevents issues from developing after the start of the course and improves communication.
Tiona,
This is the value of a well prepared syllabus for students as well as yourself as the learning leader.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A well-prepared syllabus assures that the instructor and students have a clear understanding of expectations and should lead to better outcomes overall.
Alana,
They need to understand the requirements, policies and assignments of the course right from the beginning. This way many of their questions will be answered and the focus can then be on the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Reanna,
This is what increases the value of the syllabus for the students. They see it as the road map for the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Robert,
There are basic parts of syllabi but there is no one standard one that emerges. The structure really depends on the personal preference of the instructor.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Students need to know what to expect from the school as well as their Professor when it comes to the class they are taking. A Syllabus provides vital information for the student ranging from school policies to learning objectives.
A well-prepared syllabus is essential to provide students what they need to know about the course, including policies, objectives, and general lesson activities. The syllabus is, in essence, an introduction to the course. It should provide the students with the knowledge of the policies so that there are no questions later about what is acceptable. Also, the objectives set the standard for each student's personal progress, helping him or her design their own personal objectives for the course. Finally, the general activities should get the students excited about the course and give them a general calendar overview so that they can time-manage their individual schedules.
The syllabus helps the students and you stay on the same path. It also minimizes misunderstandings about what is expected and when things are due. The first day I find it is worth the time to go through the syllabus in detail, remind about the next class assignments at the end of class.
It is important for students to understand the guidelines of the course and class.
