Designing Your Course

For many students, the syllabus is their first introduction to your course. What information is important for students to know in order to be successful in your course? Explore a non-exhaustive list of recommended information and template statements to include in your course syllabi.

Flipping the classroom is a pedagogical approach where students first explore new course content outside of class by viewing a pre-recorded lecture video or digital module, or completing a reading or preparatory assignment. In-class time is organized around student engagement, inquiry, and assessment, allowing students to grapple with, apply, and elaborate on course concepts.

A course syllabus is an important document to do exactly this. While a syllabus may principally provide some of the “nuts and bolts” about a course and communicate campus-wide policies, it can also be a place to consider the tone and environment you’re creating for students before the class even begins.

Develop a set of learning objectives for a course by crafting a short list of concepts, topics, or skills that can guide student learning and add clarity to students’ learning experiences.