Syllabus - How can posting your syllabus benefit you and your students?

The syllabus is a course guide that students should have access to from the first day of class. The syllabus provides students with the course outcomes, information about course materials, contact information for the instructor, grading information, course/campus policies, and much more.

There are several ways you can make the syllabus available to students in Canvas courses, and each option has certain benefits.  

Syllabus in Google Docs

• If you use the same syllabus in multiple sections, this is the most efficient method.
• Create the syllabus in Google docs and link to it from Canvas. When you make changes in Google docs, you don't need to update your Canvas course(s). Learn more about integrating Google Docs with Canvas.
• This is a great option for usability and viewing on small screens like smartphones.

Syllabus in Pages

Instead of using a Google Doc or uploading a file, you can create your syllabus in a page in Canvas. 

• Create a new page and paste (or type) your syllabus content there. 
• Later you'll read about an option for creating a tabbed page with your syllabus content.
• This is a great option for usability and viewing on small screens like smartphones.

Uploaded Syllabus File

• You can create your syllabus using MS Word or Adobe for pdfs, and then upload it into the Files section in Canvas.
• Better yet, after you upload your syllabus to the Files section, add it to the Start Here module so it's easy for students to find.
• Of course, you can also link to that file from multiple places within Canvas.
• Keep in mind that uploaded pdf or Word files aren't as easily readable on small screens like smartphones.

Canvas's Built-in Syllabus Feature

Canvas provides a syllabus feature that appears in the left navigation menu, which instructors can choose to use. 

• Appears in the left navigation menu so students can locate it easily.
• Includes both the syllabus and a course summary showing students when assignments and quizzes are due.
• This feature has drawbacks, so consider carefully before using it. For example, students often click the assignments in the syllabus feature and do not read the module content that accompanies it.