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Hey there:
Students need a clear outlook for the class.
They need to know where the class will go and what is expected from them.
My syllabus has a daily outline, they like to know what the each day expectations for planning and practice
The outcome is important for them. Gives them confidence.

I use it as a reference point if a problem arises

First and foremost, the students expect it. It's always one of the first questions students ask me. A good syllabus lays everything out day to day which allows the student to plan accordingly and know when they will have tests, quizzes, labs, etc. It cuts down on confusion and questions about when assignments are due, what chapters to read and so forth. The signature page at the end is a great idea so that an instructor knows the student has really looked at it and understands what is expected of them. Without a good syllabus I feel the student and the instructor are "winging" it and then we are asking for trouble in the way of forgetting things, leaving things out, etc. The class would feel lost and confused. It also leaves the instructor open for a lack of control as far as stating when things are due, etc. Just like we say in healthcare- "if it isn't written, it didn't happen". If we don't give the students specific dates on things, they can argue that "we never told them" they had an assignment due or a test on a given day. If it's in the syllabus, they know from the beginning what is expected and when things will be happening.

It is not only beneficial to the instructor but it allows students to have a clear understanding of the expectations of the class.

Hi Dennis,
You are correct about heading off "end of course" disputes. A well developed syllabus lays out the course expectations, requirements and policies. So when a dispute comes up you can refer to the syllabus section that deals with the question.
Gary

Hi Scott,
Good way to show how you have experienced being a student and that you understand where they are coming from. This helps in relating to their current situations.
Gary

To give the students an idea of what the couse is all about, what is expected of them and to answer questions they may have. I think that havin a well-prepared syllabus can also eliminate or decrease problems in the classroom. It will make the class run smoother.

Gary

One benefit I see from a thorough Syllabus is it eliminates most end-of-course grade disputes because the course, its objectives and assignments are all clearly specified in it, so a student cannot claim they "didn't know"

Dennis

The syllabus is the "Bible" to the student..this serves as the informational packet that the students need and rely on to know everything they need to in connection with their course. Any and all questions that the students have should be met in the syllabus.

I have always treated a syllabus and created a syllabus based upon expectations I had as a student. Searching for clarity and specific goals to keep me on track both independently and dependently.

Having a prepared outline of the course syllabus for students explaining their expectations for the course is essential and beneficial for all students, if it is well prepared then the students will never have a reason to comment they did not know an assignment was due on a particular day, it is their responsibility to keep up with the next days assignments and when their due, which in turn teaches them responsibility as well as accountability.

Lisa - I agree that it is not only the instructor’s responsibility to prepare and present the course, but it is also the student's responsibility to come prepared to learn and be actively engaged in the learning process. The old adage "you can bring a horse to the water but you cannot make it drink" holds true in student learning! We can create the "perfect" syllabus, develop an active learning environment, and be the best teacher, but unless the student puts in his or her part and is prepared to learn then there is not guarantee that our efforts will produce the desired effect.

Why is it important to have a well-prepared syllabus for your course?

I believe it is important to have a well-prepared syllabus so that the students know what to expect out of the classroom. It also helps to eliminate many questions that students may have about the course and assignments required for the course

I agree with the reply that a well-prepared Syllabus is a contract between the instructor and the student. It includes well define expectations and goals. Each student is given a copy that they must read. The two main objectives that I think most important are: It gives the course organization and structure and it includes class policies, assignments, and deadlines.

Hi Dr. Miller,
Right you are. By not putting forth the effort to prepare for your classes and students you are showing that you are not a professional educator nor are you a model for your students.
Gary

Because Syllabus is a contract between instructor and students. The course should follow the syllabus.

Karen: I agree, but at times it seems that we give the student to much information. Example: Last semester I gave a Stat class an exam that was not on the syllabus, and boy did that cause me a lot of problems. I ended up in front of the department chair explaining why I did that!! I think sometimes the students are running the univerisity.

I think not being well prepared is also not in your best interest.

A well prepared syllabus provides the students with the course goals and objectives necessary to be successful in the class. A well prepared syllabus can also answer questions students may have about the class and as a result relieve unnecessary stress or anxiety.

Allows for a great flow process and order in the course.

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