Syllabus Design
Syllabus Design and Why Time Spent on it is Valuable
The course syllabus serves as the first representation of the course, the flow, and your communication with the students before they ever interact with you in any other way. Thoughtful syllabus design can set the stage for your relationship with the students, their engagement with the content, and the behaviors within the learning context. Done well, a syllabus can convey information that will support student learning, facilitate an efficient flow of communication throughout the semester, and motivate students to connect the course content to larger, real-world questions that can be addressed after completing the course.
How to Design a Syllabus
While a well-organized syllabus will communicate information specific to the course and relevant University policies that impact the learning environment, an intentionally designed syllabus should avoid giving the impression that the course is simply rules to follow and earning a grade is a transactional process. The layout, format, and tone should focus more on student learning and help set the stage for a dynamic learning experience.
The Virginia Tech Faculty Handbook is managed by Faculty Affairs, and it provides relevant information regarding policies and expectations for course syllabi in Section 9.6.1 Syllabus and Performance Expectation.
A syllabus should detail the descriptive information regarding the course, the instructor’s policies, and expectations of the students. Although syllabi take many forms and models, the Syllabus Checklist provides general information as to what should be included on your course syllabus.
Pro Tips for Course Syllabus Design:
- Avoid the TL;DR response from students. Lengthy syllabi increase the risk that students will not engage with the most pertinent elements of your syllabus. Consider including the most valuable information in the first two pages and leverage the use of your Canvas site to communicate additional information in a well-organized fashion.
- Consider the tone of your writing within the course syllabus and remember that this is the first communication students will receive from you. Aim for positive, respectful, and inviting phrasing. Creative models of syllabi that include visual elements aligned with the course content may also increase student engagement with the syllabus.
- Ensure your syllabus is accessible by checking these TLOS resources.
- Consider using or adapting these example syllabus statements and policies that are organized by topic.