My syllabus is my bible. It gives a detailed description of the day by day of the entire modules activities, assignments due, projects, tests etc. Ihe students know whats expected of them ahead of time and I can organize my day very effectively.
Aside from the obvious, that a syllabus gives students a detailed outline of course requirements, directions for learning, and a map of course material, it also helps the instructor by giving him or her a document that can be maintained and updated as the course material dictates. Information changes over time, some portions of the syllabus may become irrelevant and need to be replaced as new discoveries are made in career fields and technological advances are achieved. The syllabus allows the instructor to have a flexible 'game-plan' for plotting course material.
Hi Robert,
Right you are about how a syllabus needs to be a living document. A syllabus can change every time the course is taught if needed. Your strategy of making notes on needed changes for the next course is a great way of keeping tract of needed changes and making sure they are not forgotten by the next course phase.
Gary
One reason - the syllabus provides solid, concrete backup for disputes which may arise between the instructor and a student. Material that is not covered in the syllabus will be more difficult for the instructor to justify certain action on. The 2nd module discussed the syllabus answering 'questions' the students might have, but 'challenges' I suppose may describe what comes to mind to me when considering grading policy, acceptable behavior, the right of the instructor to excuse students from the room, etc.
I know my syllabus for my current course already has notes for updating it next quarter, and I've spoken with at least 2 other instructors, I think, in the same boat. A syllabus is a 'living document' that can change many times over the lifetime of an instructor's course.
Lisa,
On your post you mentioned that some students don't take responsibility of their learning, I find this to be true. In my own opinion, I think that it has to do with the fact that many of the adult learners do not understand what it means to be an adult learner. Some of them only have expereince with the traditional school/teaching methods in which the teacher is doing all the work for the students. Therefore the expectations of the students are that the teacher will be delivering more information that what is facilitated in the non-traditional schools. What do you all think?
Ruth
I believe that the syllabus is the main point of reference to know what is expected of the course, the students and even the instructor on the weekly basis.
It gives the students direction and can help alleviate future questions about assignments and their expectations for the class.
Being a first time instructor, I found this to be a key element to kick off the course and guide the students into an understanding of what they would acquire when the course is to be completed. It was really helpful to me to view other instructors samples---so I could get a better understanding of what needed to be compiled in this. Addendums are always helpful!
Hi Steve,
Good comments about the importance of developing and then using the syllabus. It is a very important document and just as you have done many instructors have their students sign that they have received the course syllabus and have reviewed. This shows them the importance you attach to it as the road map for the course.
Gary
A syllabus is a contract between the instructor and the students. It is important that the instructor can live with all its elements. Mistakes in the syllabus are something the instructor is going to have to follow. It can be a lesson learned. I always have another instructor proof my syllabus.
A well prepared syllabus helps the student and instructor stay on the same page throughout the course. Any questions about where we have been or where we are going --check the syllabus!
PREPARING SYLLABUS IS VERY IMPORTANT NOT ONLY FOR MY STUDENTS BUT ALSO FOR ME AS AN INSTRUCTOR,PREPARING THE SYLLABUS WILL HELP THE INSTRUCTOR TO ORGANIZE AND TO MAKE A LINK BETWEEN THE THEORETICAL AND THE PRACTICAL PART,ALSO PREPARING THE SYLLABUS WILL MAKE THE STUDENTS WELL ORIENTED,AND ALSO MOTIVATE THEM.
The syllabus is the contract. It establishes definitions. It sets expectations. Establishes the process. And offers the scale of consequences. The syllabus tells your organization what your are preparing and tells the class what the "game and rules are". I use it often in redefining and answering questions of organization and process with the class... "lets look at the syllabus". Sometimes I have required the class sign a statement confirming they have read and understand the syllabus.
It important to have a well-prepared syllabus so that the students can have a written document in front of them, and a document that will be consistent through out the module.
Also, if any questions arise about what my expectations are...it will be in the syllabus. Classroom rules, break times, outside class study times.......
A well-prepared syllabus is a contract between student and instructor; it is a clear road map that indicates where the course is going so that there is clarity for both student and instructor. In essence everyone is on the same page and students will have a clear understanding of the expectations of the course.
It will allow your students to be aware of your requirements/expectations related to their success in the course.
It lets students know what you expect from them, as well as what they can expect from you. A good syllabus outlines for students what they need to do to be successful in your course.
It sets the tone for professionalism. The syllabus is a clear reflection of the type of instructor you are.
Having a well-prepared syllabus puts students at ease because they know the vital information about the course, as well as what to expect.
When I have a well prepared syllabus the class seems to flow smoother. There are usually less questions about what is expected of the student and everything is better organized from the get go.
