Syllabus critique Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Syllabus critique - Assignment Example A syllabus is a contract, which is written between a teacher and students. A good syllabus meet specific objectives, it has important components and answers critical questions. Nonetheless, few syllabi fulfill all these functions well. A focused and brief syllabus is the best. It should communicate the nature of the course to the students clearly and understandable manner. When the students understand the procedures and purpose of the course, they are more likely to enjoy the learning process. It is very important that all teachers follow the policies and needs set in their syllabi. They should not forget the whole parts of the contract. As the students are required to abide by the procedures and rules spelled out in the syllabus, the teacher is also agreeing to follow the same. A detailed syllabus will make the expectation clear to all parties. A teacher should organize to discuss the syllabus fully during the first class meeting. This requires fast distribution the syllabi to all t he students. Teachers should meet the deadlines of teaching. they should provide the requirements of the syllabus promptly if they require their students to be prompt. Strategies When planning the syllabus, one should consider the following strategies: basic identifying information, information about t6he instructor, texts and other materials, course description, objectives, description and requirements, course calendar, grading procedures and scaling Basic Identifying Information The basic information to identify includes the institution, course title, year, the semester, and time of class and location of class meetings. It should also include benefits earned for completing the course successfully. The title and the name of the instructor should also be included. The office telephone number, location, working hours, and mailing address are important if students can communicate with the teacher. Textbooks and Other Materials The syllabus should specify the authors, titles, editions, and sometimes publishers of the texts. It is important to specify the location for acquiring these materials. The location of library, bookstore, computer laboratory, and personal offices should be clear. It is essential to know the requirements and conditions for obtaining these materials. Course Description The course description is given directly by the institution. It must include a short and clear description of the knowledge, skills, major topics to be covered and any special opportunities and prerequisites obtained. Course Objectives The course objectives are very important because it should emphasize on the evaluation of learners outcome. The syllabus should clearly state the objective of the course. Objectives can be affective, behavioral, or cognitive. A well-set instructional objective provides a layout for instructional approach communicates instructional intent and gives guidelines for evaluating students. Course Requirements This explains exactly what learners are exp ected to do in the course. It includes a brief description of the assessments administered, and the paper written. Course Calendar It contains the dates of specific lesson topics, exams, reading assignments, and deadlines for projects and other papers. Any change s to the syllabus calendar should be provided to learners in writing. Grading Procedures and Scales The syllabus should provide clear criteria and procedures for assessing students’ performance and grade assignment. Regulations regarding extra credit, deadlines, and penalties for late work should be stipulated. It should include academic policy with explanations of these concepts in its literature. A good syllabus enables teachers to share their pedagogical ideas with their students. It tells the students how their teachers view the learning process, whether passive or active. How they emphasize skill building, knowledge enhancement or the combination of both. The syllabus shows how the course is organized from simpl e to complex. It should have