A syllabus is a contract and a map.  As a contract, it is where you define course expectations, policies, and assignments for students.  As a map, it provides goals in the form of course objectives and students refer to this document throughout the semester in order to keep themselves on track. It is also an effective planning document. A detailed syllabus stating course goals and methods can help instructors better plan the most effective presentation of course content. A poorly written syllabus can affect student attitude, performance, and civility, and may even cause legal complications.

View a variety of academic integrity resources compiled by faculty, including a sample start of the semester conversation about the roles and responsibilities of both instructor and student.

The Office of Student Conduct & Civility Education can provide in-class sessions on the topics of civility and ethical decision making.

Watch a brief captioned video (3:22) describing grade basics at TU, or read the transcript.

View a sample course evaluation (PDF)