Course Outline
A course outline or syllabus is a summary of the basic elements of a course, including class schedules, expectations, learning outcomes, assessments and policies. Functionally, it serves as a contract between you and your students. However, its true value can go beyond that. Your course outline can set up your students for success by helping them understand what is expected of them and what they should expect from you.
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Why Course Outlines Matter
The course outline is an important document for both instructors and students. A well-designed course outline helps establish the tone of the course and serves as a reference guide throughout the term.
For Instructors
- Helps you plan and organize your course.
- Articulates your teaching style and assessment methods.
- Models the course lessons, topics, and outcomes.
- Establishes the expectations you have for your students.
- Allows you to set policies and guidelines.
For Students
- Establishes an initial point of contact between the instructor and learners.
- Aligns course objectives, topics, and assessments.
- Defines student expectations and responsibilities.
- Provides a framework for what students can expect from the instructor.
- Articulates important policies, guidelines, and resources.
Learner-centred course outlines can help foster a more engaging learning environment and build student-instructor rapport. Constructing a learner-centred course outline involves viewing learning as a partnership with students and shifting focus from simply covering course content to supporting learner success through clear communication, structure, and resources.
Example
Traditional |
Learner-Centred |
|---|---|
|
Instructor: Dr. Jane Doe, PhD. Office: Science Building, SCIXX Telephone: (905) 721-8668, ext. XX Email: jane.doe@ontariotechu.ca Office Hours: By appointment |
Instructor: Dr. Jane Doe, PhD (she/her) — you can address me as “Jane”. Office: Science Building, SCIXX Telephone: (905) 721-8668, ext. XX Email: jane.doe@ontariotechu.ca Office Hours: Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:00 to 4:00 PM via Google Meet (link). I am always happy to connect with students during office hours. If these hours do not work with your schedule, please email me to arrange another time to meet. I am also able to provide assistance via email if that is your preference. I aim to respond to emails within 1–2 business days. Please note that I do not check emails after 7 PM or during weekends and holidays. |
Personalizing Your Course Outline
Your course outline is more than a collection of rules and expectations. It can help establish the tone of the course, communicate important information, connect learners with resources, and share your enthusiasm for the subject matter and learning experience.
To personalize your course outline, consider including the following elements:
Introductory Message
Welcome your students to the course and briefly introduce yourself. You can share unique features of the course, such as experiential learning opportunities, and describe why you are excited about teaching the course.
Instructor Information
In addition to listing contact information, you can provide learners with more information about yourself, such as a brief bio, your pronouns, and how you would like to be addressed.
Teaching Philosophy
Provide a brief statement outlining your values, goals, and beliefs regarding teaching and learning.
Rationale for Teaching Approach and Evaluation Methods
Share the rationale behind your teaching and evaluation methods. This can include information about how the course design has evolved based on student feedback and how it supports a learner-centred environment.
References
Gwenna Moss Centre for Teaching and Learning. (2021, May 3). Using your syllabus to set the tone for class. University of Saskatchewan.
https://teaching.usask.ca/articles/2021-05-03-using-your-syllabus-to-set-the-tone-for-class.php
Office of Teaching, Learning & Technology. (n.d.). Function of the Syllabus. The University of Iowa.