Create an Online Course Syllabus
The course syllabus is a tool used to establish norms and initiate student success.
To ensure your syllabus enhances student learning, aids in their success, and limits
stress follow the tips outlined in the video.
Tips for increasing readership:
- Add Visual Elements: Converting a syllabus into a document with simple text and graphically displayed
information can be an effective strategy to encourage text-weary students to engage
in critical course information. For example, when students skim the document, images
can quickly convey information and increase students’ understanding of the standard
components of the syllabus.
- Some great design tools are: Canva and Piktochart
- Include Explicit Expectations: Providing explicit expectations about course processes and social norms equalizes information for students. Delivering this information in written format clarifies these academic norms and mitigates gaps in a diverse student population.
- Make it Available Online: It is often believed that “the shorter, the better” for a tool like a syllabus. However, data shows that a more detailed syllabus does NOT reduce students’ engagement, especially if the syllabus is an online format. Upload your syllabus to Canvas, where students can easily access it throughout the semester and readily search the digital document for needed information.
- Be Inclusive: Distributing details of the instructor’s expectations, such as statements about safe learning environments, accommodations requests, resources, and grading practices provides students with information that is assumed to be known by some students with non-traditional university backgrounds. It is the first step to creating an inclusive learning environment.
- Use a Warm Tone: Instructors who use a warm and positive tone in a syllabus, communicate compassion and care to students. It can increase the instructor’s approachability and fosters a positive classroom environment where a mutually respectful class experience can be anticipated. In addition, it enhances and encourages a feeling of community among learners.
- Create Engagement with the Tool: Instructors who are transparent with students about how to read and engage in the syllabus can increase students’ course success. They should share the importance of readying the syllabus and incentivize engagement by using a syllabus quiz or scavenger hunt. These assignments encourage students to become familiar with the document early in the semester.
Syllabus Template
The newly updated Online Course Syllabus Template now includes guidelines for Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) and an AI Use Policy, helping faculty meet important compliance and teaching standards. It’s designed for easy customization and integration directly into Canvas, streamlining your course setup.
Creating an Accessible Syllabus
Website with Example Accessible Syllabi