Syllabi
How to make them readable without being too vague or too indepth.
Hi Resa,
Make the narrative specific and to the point. Plus use major headings that show how the different sections stand out and apply to the course.
Use colored paper to highlight the different sections. This makes them standout and helps you refer to certain sections by identifying the colors.
Gary
I completely agree with Dr. Meers.
I've started a binder of syllabi I've collected over the years. Some of them are awesome. Some of them are downright awful. What I've done in the past to create my own syllabi is take out a handful of hi-lighters and highlight the different parts of different syllabi that I like and suit the course I'm designing.
The syllabi I've designed were for a class and a teacher actually critiqued mine. What I wonder is if there are people out there who professionally critique?
Hi Corinne,
I am sure there are, though I don't personally know of any. I do critique many of them to help instructors improve their syllabus development. Since I teach instructor preparation courses I get to see many different kinds and formats used in developing course syllabi.
I like your idea of keeping the binder of syllabi for samples. It gives you a handy reference as you write a new one.
Should you ever like me to review one of yours, I will be glad to do so.
Gary
Gary
I'm never sure how specific is too specific, but I seem to be redoing my syllabus every new term to update it. My requirements and expectations don't change so why does my syllabus have to change so often?
Hi Edna,
Good question. If the everything remains the same you should not have to redo your syllabus. The only time would be if you have new projects or work assignments that need to be spelled out for the students. Something I do with my syllabus is keep it the same and if the assignments change I give a handout along with the syllabus that details any changes I make. This is a one page supplement that I have the students attach to the last page of the syllabus.
Hope this answers your question. If not let me know and I will expand on my answer.
Gary
