what does it mean when a college wants a course description

by Dr. Ignacio Connelly 6 min read

A course description serves to state the rationale for the course and give an overview of key content covered, skills and knowledge to be learned, and how it will benefit the student. It may include learning strategies and major activities, if it would be a significant factor in a student deciding whether to take the course or not.

However, a course description is generally written to help students decide if the course is one they want or need to take. A syllabus lists the specific course requirements a student must complete, once she's actually registered for the class.

Full Answer

What is the purpose of a course description?

A course description provides a basic overview of what a class offers. A course description includes a course prefix, course number, course title, lecture and lab contact hours, semester credit hours, description of the class and prerequisites, according to Texas A&M University.

What is the difference between a course description&syllabus?

A syllabus list the instructor's requirements for the course. It's easy to confuse a course description with a syllabus because both offer details about specific academic classes. However, a course description is generally written to help students decide if the course is one they want or need to take.

Who writes course descriptions for college students?

Teachers and professors often help draft course descriptions, but much of the writing is done by administrators and department heads. Course descriptions help students determine whether prerequisites are necessary for particular classes and if they need certain courses to fulfill their academic or degree requirements.

What is a college course?

A college course is a class offered by a college or university. These courses are usually part of a program leading to an undergraduate or graduate degree or a certificate. Read on for more specifics about college courses. College courses are available from many sources and in many forms.

What is a college course description?

A course description is. a short, pithy statement which informs a student about the subject matter, approach, breadth, and applicability of the course. focuses on content ...

What do you write in a description course?

How to Write a Course DescriptionBe student-centered, rather than teacher-centered or course-centered.Use brief, outcomes-based, descriptive phrases that begin with an imperative or active verb (e.g., design, create, plan, analyze)Be clear, concise, and easy to understand (< 80 words)More items...

What is a course description called?

A course syllabus is an academic document that communicates information about a specific course and explains the rules, responsibilities and expectations associated with it.

How do you describe your course?

How To Describe a Course (In an Interview)title and main takeaway point.textbook/s (if low undergrad) or readings (if high undergrad/grad) with brief explanation/justification.Broad organization of the course, with about 3 “landmarks”examples of innovative assignments.Conclusion.

How long is a course description?

The description should run from 30 words to 120 words in length. Fewer than 30 is too sketchy. Too few words make the course look insubstantial and may not allow for enough information to be included. If a description is, more than 120 words, it is too long.

What is the difference between course description and syllabus?

A course description is usually written in paragraph form with complete sentences. A syllabus often contains timelines, calendars, outlines, bullet points and tables or infographics that quickly and concisely relay important information.

What is a one year college degree called?

An associate degree is often an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or an Associate of Science (A.S.). A degree earned in a professional program is often called an Associate of Applied Science, or A.A.S., though sometimes the name reflects the specific field of study, such as an Associate of Engineering.

How do you write a college course?

To design an effective course, you need to:Consider timing and logistics.Recognize who your students are.Identify the situational constraints.Articulate your learning objectives.Identify potential assessments.Identify appropriate instructional strategies.Plan your course content and schedule.

How do you explain college without a degree interview?

Make your reason short and honest. For example, “I never went back to finish my degree and that's something I regret. I'm planning to re-enroll in a few online classes to finish it over time.” There—you've addressed it and there's not much more an employer can ask.

What is course content example?

Any informational material that is required for participation or understanding content such as assigned readings, video recordings, exams, and any other material needed for learning. Copyright © 2022 UC Regents; all rights reserved.

How do you answer why do you choose this course?

Highlight your strengths Include information about your skills and natural talents in your answer. Consider mentioning how your skills align with the subject matter. Focus on your unique strengths that could contribute to your success in the course. Discuss the skills you hope to further develop through the course.

What is prerequisite in college?

A prerequisite is a course that a student must complete in order to enroll in another course. Students are responsible for the prerequisites and placement test requirements for all classes.

What is a co-requisite?

A co-requisite is a course that a student must be enrolled in at the same time as the course requiring the co-requisite. It is listed in the course descriptions as "Co-req:"

Do you have to take a course before enrolling in a class?

Some courses reflect coursework or other preparation the faculty has recommended. Such preparation is not required prior to enrollment in a class, but students may find the background knowledge helpful.

What is college course?

A college course is a class offered by a college or university. These courses are usually part of a program leading to an undergraduate or graduate degree or a certificate.

What are the courses that colleges offer?

These schools also offer general education courses, which form the core coursework in math, English, science and the humanities that serves as the basis for all degree programs.

How long does it take to get a doctorate degree?

Certificates that require a short time period to complete to doctoral programs, which may take many years. Prerequisites. Individual courses have specific requirements, but most colleges require a minimum of high school diploma or equivalent for enrollment.

How do students interact with instructors?

Students might have some interaction with instructors and fellow students through email, online chat sessions or discussion boards. These courses are sometimes more work-intensive than face-to-face courses, and they require self-discipline and time management skills.

What is on campus class?

On-campus, or face-to-face, courses are usually presented in a lecture format where students attend a talk on a specific subject given by a professor or instructor. Some courses, especially those dealing with science, include a laboratory component where students partake in hands-on experiences. Other courses might be taught in smaller groups allowing for discussion and interaction between students and the instructor.

Where can I find out about courses offered at a particular institution?

Students can find out about courses offered at a particular institution by searching the school's website or contacting the institution for a catalog of the courses available.

What is the NCES college navigator?

Students can also use an online search tool, such as the National Center for Education Statistic's (NCES) College Navigator, to locate an institution offering a specific program of interest.

What is a course description?

A course description provides a basic overview of what a class offers. A course description includes a course prefix, course number, course title, lecture and lab contact hours, semester credit hours, description of the class and prerequisites, according to Texas A&M University. It usually denotes what department is offering ...

Why is it important to write a course description?

However, a course description is generally written to help students decide if the course is one they want or need to take.

Why do we need a syllabus?

You'll continually refer to it to remember important test or quiz dates, project deadlines and course requirements. You might need to double-check the instructor's policies or look up the teacher's office hours so you can schedule an appointment or tutoring session. A syllabus might also help you budget how much you need for textbooks ...

What is a syllabus in college?

A syllabus is much more detailed and lists textbooks and reference materials necessary for the class, important test dates, projects and points or grades necessary to pass the class.

Do you need to refer to the course description again?

Once you read a teacher's or administrator's course description and determine whether you want to take the course, you don't usually need to refer to the description again. There's not enough specific information to help you complete assignments or accomplish academic tasks.

What is an act in college?

ACT. Activity. Activity during which the student learns a sport, trade, hobby, or other skill through hands-on practice.

What is lecture course?

A lecture course consists of classes that meet weekly for a specified number of hours; instruction is delivered in a lecture setting. Brings together a group of students to discuss topics of interest under the direction of a instructor or discussion leader. Often used interchangeably with workshop, institute, or study group.

What is an internship course?

An internship course usually involves a career-related or civic engagement learning experience of limited duration in which an individual takes on responsible roles outside of the traditional university environment where training and supervision are included: in a nonprofit organization , a government office, or a private, for-profit business.

What is independent study?

Independent Study. A self-directed approach to the acquisition of knowledge and/or competence in which a student plans and carries out learning activities on his /her own , carried out under the guidance of an instructor . Student works independently.

What is component class?

A component course is a graded lecture class that has a required, non-graded, 0-unit lab or discussion. To enroll in component classes, students enter the class number of the lab or discussion and the system will automatically enroll them in the lecture class.

Do corequisite courses have to be offered in the same semester?

Corequisite courses must always be offered in the same semester (usually lecture/lab). Students are required to enroll in corequisite course groupings at the same time through SOLAR. Note: Corequisite courses that are recommended should be designated as “Recommended Corequisites.”.

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