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Reading a Course Outline

The purpose of a course outline or syllabus or addendum is to outline the objectives, activities and assessment tasks. It is important to review documents as soon as they are posted on Blackboard.

By reviewing the course outline, you can appreciate the overall goals of the course and how they fit into your program.

Course Outline Information

The course outline typically includes the following information:

• course identification information – such as the course code and any co- or prerequisites for the course
• description of the course
• course learning outcomes – what you will know when you finish the course.
• vocational/program-specific learning outcomes
• postsecondary policies and procedures – particularly information on attendance
• the mark required to pass the course
• type of assessments used to determine your final grade

Also, the day-to-day academic activities in the course are often in the outline. It includes practical information, such as the delivery method of the course, the dates/times of lectures/labs, how you will be assessed and when these assessment activities will be due. There is typically information on required learning resources and materials, such as textbooks, required readings and/or clothing/tools. A delivery schedule is typically included, which is a helpful guide of the weekly learning activities, including lectures, assigned readings and assignments/quizzes. The timing of any tests or exams is also included, as well as a breakdown of how much these assessment activities are worth when calculating your final grade.

While these documents may seem unnecessary, quite often your questions are answered in them. It is highly recommended that you review them and refer back to them during the term.