A course syllabus is a vital part of any class as it provides a framework for the instructor and the student on what is expected from each party. A syllabus is essentially the first material that students receive on the first day of class and it gives all members of the course clear information about what is expected. It is essential that a course syllabus contain information pertinent to the instructor(s), policies, and curriculum.
A syllabus is tangible evidence of the goals, learning objectives, instructional activities, and performance requirements of a specific course. While the syllabus is typically seen as a contract between the instructor and students concerning the nature and guidelines of a course, syllabi are also used to examine the relationship of a course within the broader curriculum. As such, in addition to facilitating communication between the instructor and student, syllabi are utilized by administrators, institutions, and accreditation agencies to document the role and effectiveness of a specific course. The purposes of a syllabus can be divided into three different functions: practical, theoretical, and institutional.
| Practical | Theoretical | Institutional |
Establishes an early point of contact between student and instructor |
Describes the instructor's beliefs about educational purposes of the course |
Provides evidence to meet accreditation requirements |
Helps set the tone for the course |
Sets the course in a broader context for learning |
Serves as a learning contract between the student, instructor, and institution |
Acquaints students with the logistics of the course |
Provides a conceptual framework for course activities |
Provides a tangible record of course goals and objectives |
Defines student responsibilities for successful course work |
Ties course material to learning outside the classroom |
Creates an account of course activities |
Helps students to assess their readiness for the course |
Highlights purpose and rationale for course |
May be utilized as part of the instructor's personnel file |
Describes available learning resources and encourages students' self monitoring |
Reinforces the intentions, roles, attitudes, and strategies that an instructor will utilize to promote active, purposeful, effective learning. |
Ensures that instructor is providing contracted services to the institution |
Communicates the role of various instructional strategies in the course |
Communicates course focus within the curriculum |
Utilized for recruiting both students and instructors |
Specifies the duties and responsibilities of both parties |
Identifies course goals, learning objectives, and evaluation system |
Serves as documenting evidence to protect against student complaints |
A good, student-centered syllabus provides students with an overview of the course, outlines performance and knowledge expectations, and highlights resources that promote a quality learning experience. A well-constructed syllabus is a detailed document that allows students to understand the course as an integrated whole while recognizing the discrete activities required to achieve overall course objectives.
Adapted from Park University, 2007.