Leaving space in the syllabus...
Ensures student ownership
Creates classroom sense of belonging
Makes expectations clear
Supports student 'buy in'
Overview
The instructor will leave sections of the class syllabus open for student involvement at the beginning of the semester.
Allow structured conversation to determine portions of the expectations to be co-created.
(cell phone policy, late work, etc)
Finalize and post finalized syllabus with student input.
Core Components
Skeleton of syllabus with non-negotiables must be the starting point
Clearly identify goals, purpose, and procedure
Take and implement the agreed upon framework
Proactive Implementation
Proactively leaving a space open in the syllabus may look like picking an area of the document that you feel student voice/import can be incorporated. When reviewing the syllabus you may get to that point and allow students to write in what that aspect may look like. You must be comfortable with the outcome and set clear perameters.
Responsive Implementation
Responsively leaving space in the syllabus requires a pivot in instructional practices. This may occur when there is a lack of community within a classroom. A meeting may occur where conversations about a specific aspect of the class are rethought and adapted.
Connection
If the need is connection then the portion of syllabus that is open for discussion could be code of conduct, discipline, or dispositions.
Skills Training
If the need is skill building then communication skills may be utilized when the discussion occurs. The area of the syllabus may also be a focus on a particular skill such as listening.
Awareness
If the need is awareness then the parameters should be explained explicitly and the non-negotiables are outlined.
Emotional Regulation
If the need is regulation then the area of the syllabus may be a discussion about what is and isn't okay when someone is dyregulated in the room.
Consider Factors Prior to Start
Student factors-
Gender, race, function, topography, family dynamics, interpersonal relationships
Contextual factors -
Resource availability, classroom instruction, physical space, time, technology
Intensifying or Fading During
Duration
Frequency
Feedback
Reinforcement
Goals
REMINDER
Make a note to document when you're starting this intervention.
After 10 consecutive school days of implementation, use collected data to determine the intervention's effectiveness.
Co-Creating Course Syllabi: Personalizing learning through the co-creation of a course syllabus