Preparing a More Effective Syllabus
A Self-Guided Module
This self-guided module provides ideas and inspiration for revisions to your syllabus that will help you launch your courses on a strong and positive note.
1. Effective Syllabus Essentials
First, review the video below, which references the documents included in this module. Then you can download the documents and put them to use as you strengthen your syllabus into one that enhances students' perceptions of you and of the course.
In this video, Patrick O'Sullivan, CTLT director, guides you through what we know about the importance of a well-crafted syllabus to inform and motivate students as well as to shape more positive perceptions of the instructor (that's you) and the course. He provides specific recommendations and sample revisions for making your syllabi less a formal legalistic contract and more of a "promising" welcome to the course -- ones that students may be more likely to actually read and remember.
2. Supporting Resources
After viewing, download the documents below as you put these ideas into practice revising your syllabi for the coming quarter's classes.
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Academic Rules for All Syllabi (PDF)
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"The Promising Syllabus" by Ken Bain (PDF)
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Toward a More Promising Syllabus (website)
3. Recommended Syllabus Statements
When preparing your syllabi, another important way of making your them more effective is by providing clear language about your course policies and expectations as well as expressions of support for student inclusion and success. Links below are to recommended language for what are commonly called "syllabus statements," including guidance essential to convey to students in Fall 2021 about expectations and rules during the COVID-19 pandemic.
