Developing an Online Course Syllabus

A syllabus is a document that most college students have become accustomed to receiving at the start of each course they take, which normally outlines basic information that one needs to know and be responsible for throughout the course. With the steady emergence of online classes, tips have been suggested as to how professors can create an online course syllabus with a convenient "ABC" approach through a virtual learning environment.

The first step is to formulate a syllabus that anticipates and addresses questions that students may have. Course objectives should be easy to understand as well as outline course expectations. All information on the syllabus should be clear and nothing should have to be inferred.

Common information that should be provided to students include professor contacts, as well as books and required texts. The syllabus should also reflect the professors grading policy.

Whether the syllabus is provided to students in hand or online, it is important for professors to update it as necessary if course work changes. Another important factor is to make sure course guidelines stay consistent. If possible, professors should attempt to present their course in a unique and or personal way. The overall objective of the syllabus is that it should set the foundation and future groundwork for the course.

An online syllabus can be easily formatted and broken down into 3 parts known as The Contract, The Map and the Schedule:

The Contract includes:

• Name of the course
• Instructor contact info- whether by email, chat, or appointment
• Course description and goals
• Grading policy and proper ways to submit assignments
• Student expectations and standards

The Map includes:

• Given this is an online class, the syllabus should be easily located through the click of a mouse
• Headings should be clearly identified such as "lectures, discussion forums and other resources"
• Contact information should be listed in the event of technical difficulties

The Schedule includes:

• Course assignments should be laid out in a WEEKLY (or topical) format and should include subdivisions
• Assign specific dates for when assignments should be submitted and deadline times
• Give students flexibility depending on what days sessions are held- Most full time students access material in labs, dorms, and on campus, while working adults tend to do most of their work on the weekends. Allow both types of students to utilize their weekends in order to complete assignments