Syllabus and Course Design

The starting point for effective teaching is a clear understanding of course objectives and student learning outcomes, as well as having a roadmap for how those objectives and learning outcomes will be met. Syllabi should not only include information on course content, readings, assignments and activities, exams, and the grade weighting of course components but also should state what students are expected to learn or being able to do as a result of taking the course. Expectations should be clear, especially in terms of assignments and due dates. You should state your policy regarding class attendance and missed assignments and exams. Include, as well, a statement emphasizing the severe consequences of cheating and plagiarism, with a link to FAU’s Code of Academic Integrity. Keep in mind that syllabi serve as a contract between instructor and student. Minor deviations may be made but students must be given fair warning. In extraordinary circumstances, the Office of the Provost will issue instructions on how to handle missed classes.

FAU has established minimal guidelines for syllabi preparation. The links below provide more detailed information on best practices in course and syllabi design.