Constructing the Learning-Centered Syllabus
Functions of a syllabus:
- Establishes an early point of contact and connection between student and instructor.
- Helps set the tone for your course.
- Describes your beliefs about educational purposes.
- Acquaints students with the logistics of the course.
- Contains collected handouts.
- Defines student responsibilities for successful course work.
- Describes active learning.
- Helps students to assess their readiness for your course.
- Sets the course in a broader context for learning.
- Provides a conceptual framework.
- Describes available learning resources.
- Communicates the role of technology in the course.
- Can expand to provide difficult-to-obtain reading materials.
- Can improve the effectiveness of student note taking.
- Can include material that supports learning outside the classroom.
- Can serve as a learning contract.
(Taken from Grunert, J. (1997). The course syllabus: A learning-centered approach. Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing)
Designing a Learning Centered Syllabus
Checklist for a learning-centered syllabus:
- Title Page
- Table of Contents
- Instructor Information
- Letter to the Student
- Purpose of the Course
- Course Description
- Course and Unit Objectives
- Resources
- Readings
- Course Calendar
- Course Requirements
- Evaluation
- Grading Procedures
- How to Use the Syllabus
- How to Study for This Course
- Content Information
- Learning Tools
(Taken from Grunert, J. (1997). The course syllabus: A learning-centered approach. Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing)
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64 PLC
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Last Modified:
01/09/07
