This article provides examples, ideas, and resources for creating a syllabus that is inclusive and accessible to students.
Table of Contents
Overview
The syllabus template aims to share information and evidence-based practices that help you establish a welcoming, supportive, student-centered syllabus. The underlying purpose of syllabi is to introduce students to the instructor and course purpose, policies, and procedures, and inform false assumptions and misconceptions about online courses (Appleby, Drew, 1994; Ko, Susan, et al, 2010). Also, in general, when students perceive their instructor as approachable, they tend to be more motivated, engaged, and actively involved in their learning (Thompson, 2001; Woodside, Wong, & Weist, 1999).
With that in mind, please review the best practices provided below for creating a welcoming, engaging, and informative syllabus.
Editing the Template
While editing your syllabus, be mindful of the following:
Edit your syllabus to meet the requirements of your School, Department, and/or Program. Suggested text and required text are designated as such.
Sections
This syllabus template has many sections-- you don’t need to include all of them
Place sections in an order that makes sense for your course
Sample language
You can use the sample language as-is or revise it to be consistent with your voice
Students respond best to language that is authentic, warm, welcoming, and encouraging
Avoid punitive language or alarmist text styles (such as bold, red, and underlined styles)
Formatting and images
Keep in mind that this is your syllabus, so feel free to change the layout, fonts, etc. to your liking
Read each line carefully and be sure to fill in the blanks, remove the annotations and instructions
Refer to the why and how to use images page to learn about adding them to your syllabus
The Free Stock Images page is a good place to search for resources
Make sure to include alt text on all images to meet accessibility needs
Voice and Consistency
For consistency and approachability throughout the syllabus, refer to the reader as “you” rather than “the student”, or “students”
Setting a positive and excited tone at the beginning of your syllabus can make it easier for students to approach you with questions/ideas
Document and Text Legend
Purple text: Customize, reuse as-is, or delete, as preferred
Black text: Recommended language for consistency
Images: Using images gains students' attention and connects with their emotions
Provide attributions as specified on the hosting site
Tables: Tables can be difficult to read on a mobile device and by screen readers-- consider other layouts
Online Syllabus Editing Checklist
The Online Syllabus Editing Checklist is available to help guide you in editing and choosing a file format for your syllabus.
Template Section Annotations
The Syllabus Template Section Annotation page includes annotations of the syllabus template.
Course Schedule (Optional)
If you choose to employ a course schedule-- either in your syllabus or as a separate document-- please consider the following information:
eCampus Recommendations
Include readings/viewings/activities that students should complete before class each day; this could include:
Assignment due dates
Exam dates
The date and time of the final exam
Specify what, if anything, is subject to change, and where students may find the most up-to-date version of the schedule
Additional Considerations
As you craft your course calendar, keep in mind that the last seven days preceding the start of the officially scheduled final examination period are exam-free
Consult Policy 3080 for more information and exceptions
Canvas Communication Tools
Canvas has multiple tools you may find helpful:
Inbox is helpful for keeping email between students and you in close proximity to work in the course
Students may also use the Ask Your Teacher a Question tool using the Canvas Help button
This initiates communication via Canvas Inbox
