Syllabus Development

Catalog description

Building on knowledge of various pedagogical approaches in higher education, and methods of teaching with diverse technologies, this course focuses on syllabus design and development. Students will learn best practices in the development of an engaging, learner-centered syllabus that is responsive to a diverse community of learners. The course examines the various stages of syllabus design, including understanding the purpose and function of the course syllabus, formulation of clear learning goals and learning objectives, and implementation of evidence-based strategies to create effective assignments to support the attainment of student learning outcomes. Teaching methods and strategies that promote active learning, such as case studies, audio/visual material, and role-play activities, will be examined. Emphasis is placed on learning the skills to plan and design a course syllabus grounded in the instructor's teaching philosophy and pedagogical approach and linked to the Council on Social Work Education's 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards core competencies. Principles of course mapping, learner-centered syllabus design, inclusive pedagogy, active learning, and backward design will provide a framework for constructing an effective syllabus. 3 credits