Using a syllabus from the beginning of the course
I have found that using a syllabus helps to keep the students aware of upcoming course activities. By reviewing it at the beginning of the course gives them a chance to have something to use to allow to them ask questions pertaining to the specific training and time line involved in the course;ie: What are tests based on, how are we graded, etc...
I have also noticed that sometimes a syllabus can hinder some students education though. Due to a timely pre planned layout they sometimes feel that their not going to miss much if they miss a certain day within the syllabus, but unfortunately in my experience is not always the case.
Hello Anton,
I understand the point you made about the syllabus and the student missing, thinking he or she is not going to miss too much. I do not give my students that part of the syllabus, simply because of that reason, and if I tend to get a little behind, the student knows and it may cause problems.
Patricia
When you follow a course syllabus students are not able to say that you did not cover a certain area as how you run your class. It is important to follow it so everyone is on the same page.
Hi James,
The syllabus says it all. It is the most vital tool in any subject matter.
Patricia
A syllabus is a good start. Once you have made the outline the next step is to flesh out the skeleton. I find that students appreciate a good syllabus if it is used.
I believe that by using a syllabus we as instuctors can save time on the first day as the syllabus gives a detailed outline of the course as well as the requirements in which to pass, this means less time on the first explaining every last detail. Also it covers anything you may have forgot to mention so there is no reason for a student to complain about not knowing about a test or lab requirement, as long as you stick to it.
Hi Bob,
The students should be held accountable. They are in college now and everything they need to know is right there on the syllabus for them. A lot of students do not like to read.
Patricia
Hi Karl,
College students are so syllabus driven. They expect one on the first day. You have many college students who fully utilize the syllabus.
Patricia
I agree the sylabus is a very important tools for the students and the instructor.
Hello Brandon,
Why do you feel a syllabus is such an important tool to both the instructor and student?
Patricia
The syllabus is very important because the students of now days want the information and what is happening in their lives now (now generation). The syllabus answerns their concerns and puts them more at ease in the class.
The syllabus is a great starting point. The expectations of the class from course material, tests, class layout and schedule should be covered. The syllabus is a guideline for the class but students should be aware the schedule can deviate depending on class situation or outside influence.
Hi Christian,
At anytime the instructor has the right to deviate from the syllabus, if there is a need. Students should be aware of the deviation.
Patricia
I teach at a trade school, our classes are only 3 weeks long. A syllabus helps me to keep on track and keep the lessons and labs moving along.
The students know in advance when labs are due, when the tests will be, and what lectures will be on which day.
Hi Steven,
Wow, you move quickly. At my institution classes last for 5 weeks. It is a must to have a syllabus to go by so that you stay on task in such fast paced environment.
Patricia
The syllabus is the most important handout given. The syllabus prepares the students for what they are expected to accomplish in the class. Students should be able to ask questions about the different objectives and course requirements. A good syllabus should contain all the policies and timelines that will help the students to have a working relationship with the instructor. The syllabus should be accurate and the expectations in it should be clear. Projects should be given a brief example. The syllabus should be read aloud by the instructor to the class. The instructor should ask the students if they have any questions about the syllabus.
