So fast forwarding to the college campus, we can ask whether these emotional sensitivities are any different for a college student when they face their new courses and instructors for the first time. How does your first impression impact your students and how do you make the most of it? Since your syllabus is often available prior to the first day of class, let’s look at how its initial impression can set the stage for a warm and positive experience in your class. Motivational Language and Tone Much has been written and discussed about contents and functions of the syllabi. Traditionally. a syllabus may initially introduce the course to student through conveying learning objectives and goals, future content, and needed operational logistics. It can also function as a student contract while at the same time providing the institute a record of a course being taught. Additionally, syllabus types can range from more traditional, instructor-centered to a learner-centered style. No matter what type of syllabus you create and use, one underlying area that receives less attention is its projected tone. A positive, friendly tone may help cultivate a better student-instructor relationship and thus better overall course experience for students. Syllabus Expression If you are looking to make changes in your syllabus for the next offering of your class, Maryellen Weimer proposes some questions to consider if you seek to project warmth and enthusiasm for your course. In part she suggests you ask yourself:
- Does my syllabus convey the excitement, intrigue and wonder that’s inherently a part of the content you teach?
- Does my syllabus indicate that all the decisions about the course have been made?
- Is it full of strongly worded directives or friendly in nature?
- Is the focus on what students will be learning or on all those various things that they should and shouldn’t be doing?
- Positive or Friendly Language – will help the students feel comfortable and welcome, especially when reading the syllabus in advance of your first class.
- Rationale for Assignments – will help motivate students by clarifying how each assignment relates to your course goals.
- Self-Disclosure – sharing a personal experience or perspective can provide insight into an instructor’s interpersonal style.
- Humor – not taking yourself seriously can help with tone, but use caution as humor can be tricky and requires discretion at times.
- Compassion – perhaps best conveyed in your attendance policy when dealing with the unexpected life events.
- Enthusiasm – choose language that shows your passion for teaching and for your subject matter.