More on Syllabus
(In the Indiana example, the Curriculum document contains the syllabi)
This is the ‘content’ of the programme or unit, the topics, issues or subjects that will be covered as it proceeds. In selecting content for inclusion you should bear the following principles in mind:
- It should be relevant to the outcomes of the curriculum. An effective curriculum is purposive, clearly focused on the planned learning outcomes. The inclusion of irrelevant topics, however interesting in themselves, acts as a distraction and may confuse students.
- It should be appropriate to the level of the programme or unit. An effective curriculum is progressive, leading students onward and building on what has gone before. Material which is too basic or too advanced for their current stage makes students either bored or baffled, and erodes their motivation to learn.
- It should be up to date and, if possible, should reflect current research.