[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Creating a clear, student-centered syllabus sets the tone for a successful learning experience. To make the process easier, the Coulter Faculty Commons offers a Syllabus Template<\/a><\/strong><\/span>, updated every summer, that you are welcome to use as a starting point. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial portrait_url=”https:\/\/affiliate.wcu.edu\/cfc\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/87\/2025\/04\/SITL-2025_Teaching-Magic.png” quote_icon=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We are here to partner with you in making your syllabus a powerful, accessible tool for student success. Reach out anytime for guidance!<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Using the template is encouraged but not required<\/span><\/b>. We are always happy to support you as you create or revise your syllabi. If you’d like individual help, visit our <\/span>Consultation Page<\/span><\/b><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n We recommend including the following elements:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Make sure to check with your department about specific requirements of things to include in your syllabus.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”CFC Syllabus Companion Guide” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”on”]<\/p>\n Designed to accompany the syllabus template, this guide offers guidance, examples, and resource links to support the creation of clear, inclusive, and well-aligned syllabi.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Learning Outcomes” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n Learning outcomes are clear, measurable statements that describe what students will know, be able to do, or value by the end of a course. These outcomes set the foundation for course design and help ensure alignment between assessments, learning activities, and content.<\/p>\n Why it\u2019s important to include:<\/strong> Suggested language for linking to resources:<\/strong> [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Liberal Studies Outcomes (if applicable)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n Liberal Studies Outcomes are a set of ten student learning objectives established by WCU\u2019s Liberal Studies Committee.\u00a0<\/p>\n Why it\u2019s important to include:<\/strong> Suggested language for linking to resources:<\/strong> [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Course Materials” open=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This section lists the required and recommended resources students will need to succeed in your course, including textbooks, software, equipment, or access to online platforms.<\/p>\n For textbooks, include full citation information and ISBNs. WCU\u2019s Book Rental Program covers the cost of most undergraduate textbooks. When choosing course materials, prioritize books already in the rental program or those that can be added, since it\u2019s one of the most effective ways to make learning more affordable for your students.<\/p>\n Important Resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n For guidance on listing required textbooks, see the WCU Bookstore\u2019s Textbook Adoptions page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n If you are using OER (Open Educational Resources), review\u00a0the Hunter Library OER Guide<\/a>. If you are thinking about adopting OER for your classes, consider applying for the OER Grant Program<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Grading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n This section describes the major assignments, assessments, and activities students will complete in your course, along with how each contributes to the final grade. It should include a clear breakdown of grade weights and match the structure used in your Canvas course.<\/p>\n Canvas Gradebook Set-up Resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n How do I add a grading scheme in a course?<\/a><\/p>\n How do I weight the final course grade based on assignment groups?<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”List of Revisions” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Below is a list of revisions, reflecting updates to university policies and formatting improvements.<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Record of Changes” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n\n
Using the Syllabus Template<\/h2>\n
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Syllabus Checklist<\/h2>\n
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Syllabus Resources<\/h2>\n
Learning outcomes communicate expectations to students and serve as a roadmap for their learning journey. Well-crafted outcomes support transparency, help students take ownership of their learning, and make it easier for instructors to design assessments and evaluate success. Including thoughtfully constructed outcomes also supports accreditation and curriculum mapping processes.<\/p>\n
To write strong learning outcomes, consider using frameworks such as Fink\u2019s Taxonomy of Significant Learning<\/a>, which emphasizes holistic, integrated learning, or Bloom\u2019s Taxonomy<\/a>, which focuses on cognitive skill levels. Both offer guidance for writing outcomes that are specific, meaningful, and measurable.<\/p>\n
If your course is designated as part of the Liberal Studies Program, listing the relevant outcomes in your syllabus is both required and essential for transparency. It helps students understand how your course contributes to their broader educational experience and ensures alignment with university-wide goals.\u00a0<\/p>\n
If your course is part of the Liberal Studies curriculum, be sure to include the applicable learning outcomes from the Liberal Studies Assessment page.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n
Important Notes<\/h3>\n
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Why a Document Syllabus Matters<\/h3>\n
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Additional Resources\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
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