Why Is a Complete Syllabus Important

1. Classroom Discipline, ManagementandFaculty SyllabiPresented byScott MacLachlanDean of Student Services

2. Why Is a Complete Syllabus Important • It tells students about your academic classroom policies - Grading system • Academic dishonesty (cheating/plagiarism) • Test schedule • Written assignments (essays/research paper) • Missed test/assignments – what is your makeup policy?

3. Syllabus Cont. • It tells students about your non-academic classroom policies • Attendance requirements • Tardiness policies • Disruption policies • Use of electronic equipment in the classroom (cell phones, PDA, computers, etc.) • Do you reserve the right to make seating assignments? • Use of the Early Alert System (do you refer students through this system)

4. Syllabus Cont. • List not only your policies but also the consequences • Academic Dishonesty – do you give a zero for the assignment or an ‘F’ for the course? • Do you administratively withdraw students for excessive absences or do they have to W/D themselves? • Do you give an automatic ‘F’ for excessiveabsences? • What are the consequences for classroom disruption?

5. Syllabus Cont. • If you change your expectations, be sure to fully inform students in writing (addendum to your syllabus) • The online syllabus template can be found at the following web address: http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/academic_services/sylformat.dot

6. Classroom Management • Have reasonable classroom policies/procedures that clearly and logically are established to maintain a suitable standard of quality. • Be as specific with your policies and consequences as you possibly can, since students will try new ways of circumventing them. • Include your expectations for an environment conducive to learning (see the Classroom Etiquette Guidelines handout). • If you deviate from the syllabus make sure all students know and understand the change and that the change does not adversely impact them.

7. Classroom Management Cont. Mutual respect is important. You are faculty – maintain an appropriate professional approach with students (don’t be too friendly – it can be misinterpreted) Be consistent (equitable vs. equal) Humor is good – but can be misconstrued Be aware of diversity in your classroom You are in control. Maintain a classroom environment conducive to learning

8. Classroom Management Cont. • To obtain electronic copies of the handouts email me maclachs@palmbeachstate.edu OR • go to the web site http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/locations/ palm-beach-gardens/dean-student-services.aspx