how to write a course sylabus

How to Write a Syllabus.

• Type the title of your course at the top of the document. You can follow this by (next to or underneath) the semester, year, and section number of the ...
• Underneath the title, add your name (with title). It will appear like: Dr. James F. Clarke.
• Put your class location and meeting times.
• Insert your contact information like your office number and office hours, email address, and office phone number (if you have one).
• Place your room number and/or office number under your contact information.
• Depending on style, institutional, and regional customs, you can move information around.

Full Answer

What to do with your course syllabus ASAP?

Getting Started with Writing a Syllabus Check how your course contributes to your department, program, or graduate field curriculum and learning outcomes. Review syllabi for the same course from previous instructors. Consider meeting with them to …

How to create an effective syllabus?

Basic course information: This likely comes as no surprise! Typically, the first items on a syllabus will be the course title, number, section, credit hours, meeting times, and location. It is also a good idea to note any prerequisites for the course so that all students are aware of the required preparation, knowledge, and skills for the course.

What is a syllabus and how do you make one?

Jul 23, 2021 · A course syllabus is a document created by instructors to communicate all need-to-know information about how students can be successful in a specific course. It includes the rules and responsibilities that students will be expected to follow in the course, as well as the learning objectives that the course targets.

How to structure your course?

in your course syllabus. It is extremely unlikely that you will include every listed. We suggest two criteria in deciding what information to include. First, include all information that students need to have at the beginning of the course; second, include all information that students need to have in writing. We believe that any really important information about the course should be in writing.

What is a course syllabus?

A course syllabus is a document created by instructors to communicate all need-to-know information about how students can be successful in a specific course.

How do you plan a syllabus?

Before you begin constructing your course syllabus, you’ll need to gather and prepare to include a few key pieces of information. From the basic logistics to a weekly breakdown of the semester's schedule, let's walk through the six types of information you’ll need to include in your next syllabus.

What are the main principles of syllabus design?

Writing a syllabus that both prepares and excites your students for your course depends on more than just the information you include in it. Factor in how you include that information as well.

Where can you access a course syllabus template to begin planning?

When you're ready to start outlining your syllabus, first check with your educational institution. They may have a template that you're required to use to maintain consistency across courses. Even if a template isn’t required, they may have one that you can use as a starting point.

What should be the first item of information in a syllabus?

Course Information. The first items of information in a syllabus should give course information: course title, course number, and credit hours. Also, are there any prerequisites? Is the permission of the instructor required? Include the location of classroom, and the days and hours class/lab/studio/etc. meets.

What is a syllabus?

Etymologically syllabus means a "label" or "table of contents." The American Heritage Dictionary defines syllabus as outline of a course of study. We agree that a syllabus should contain an outline, and a schedule of topics, and many more items of information. However, we suggest that the primary purpose of a syllabus is to communicate to one's students what the course is about, why the course is taught, where it is going, and what will be required of the students for them to complete the course with a passing grade.

General course information

What is the format of the course? What is the required/optional text book? What is your contact information? Is there a prerequisite course? What is the course schedule?

How will your students be assessed?

How will students be assessed? What are the major deliverables for the course? How you will calculate their grades?

What is your academic integrity policy?

Definition and expectations: “Academic integrity is the pursuit of scholarly activity in an open, honest and responsible manner… a basic guiding principle for all academic activity at The Pennsylvania State University, and all members of the University community are expected to act in accordance with this principle.

Note to students with disabilities

Penn State welcomes students with disabilities into the University’s educational programs. If you have a disability-related need for reasonable academic adjustments in this course, contact the Office for Disability Services (ODS) at 814-863-1807 (V/TTY).

What should the objectives section of a syllabus aim to do?

Course Objectives: The objectives section of your syllabus should aim to define what students should be able to learn or do after successfully completing your course. When possible, demonstrate both the hard and soft skills you are aiming to help your students master. For example:

Why is a college syllabus important?

With a comprehensive syllabus, you can provide all the necessary information students need to for your class —while making a positive impression on them that sets the tone for the term.