Layout
The manner in which content is laid out within the syllabus is also an important factor in enhancing its usability. A well-organized syllabus allows students to locate and decipher the information quickly and efficiently. Parkes and Harris (2002) suggest using several types of organizational techniques:
- Headings and subheadings
- Boldface and italics
- Spacing and indenting
- Variable font sizes
- Bullets and/or numbering
However, be sure to exercise discretion when using the above techniques; a syllabus full of jumbled fonts and paragraphs is confusing and distracting for students.
Take a look at the clear and logical organization in these syllabi: example 1 | example 2 | example 3
