The Syllabus as a Road Map

Where am I? Where am I going?
How will I know when I have arrived?

If learning is an adventure, then the syllabus is the map leading to the treasure. In this context, the same information you need to find your way on a map is important in the course syllabus. The syllabus defines where students are in the process, what tools they will need to take their journey, where the journey will take them, and how well they have negotiated the path.

Where am I?

A well-designed syllabus indicates what prerequisite skills or knowledge is necessary to succeed in the course so that students can make decisions as to whether or not they are ready to undertake the content.

Where am I going?

The course information provided in the syllabus gives students a clear idea of the content of the course and relates where this particular course fits in the context of a course of study. Specific learning outcomes related to the course content are critical if students are to fully understand the extent of what is expected and what they will learn as a member of the class.

How will I get there?

A carefully constructed syllabus will provide details as to the pacing of the course and the schedule of topics that will be covered. Students must know how they will master each of the learning objectives is another important feature of the course syllabus. Students appreciate being told up front the extent to which they will be expected to work independently (e.g., in-class groups or out-of-class projects).

What resources will I need along the way?

Students need to know from the outset what materials they need to accomplish the learning objectives and how they access the materials. In the course syllabus, clearly detail textbooks, required readings, Internet sites, and other lab or class materials.

Is there road-side assistance if I require it?

Feeling alone on the learning journey can be a daunting experience. The course syllabus should clearly state what assistance is available and how to access it. This can range from posted office hours during which the student can obtain assistance from the instructor to the instructor offering to facilitate the formation of student study groups.

What do I get at the end of the journey?

While we all would love to think that the joy of learning is sufficient to motivate students, in fact, most students are really concerned about how you will evaluate their performance and assign grades. Your course syllabus should address the grading process. Whenever possible, provide students with the rubric that you use to grade each assignment.