A syllabus is an important document in any class because it informs students of how the class will operate,  the policies they must adhere to, when assignments are due, etc. This syllabus, in a distance learning class, is even more important document because it is the main information source about the class. For a distance teach class the syllabus requires much more detail and information than a syllabus used in a traditional class on campus.
Distance students are not able to ask questions about the class, policies, and assignments and get immediate clarification from the instructor. They often do class work during weekends and they are very likely to have questions at this time, which will often go unanswered if the instructor is not available to answer e-mail and discussion boards questions on the weekends. A comprehensive syllabus can eliminate many of these problems.
Benefits of a Well Designed Syllabus
A detailed and well designed syllabus can have the following benefits for instructors and students in distance learning classes:
• Students need less clarification on class details, saving time for both instructors and students.
• A syllabus helps students who join a class determine if it is the right class for them, allowing them to drop out if necessary.
• Students have all the details about the class in one document, making it easier for them to find your requirements, policies, etc.
• A detailed syllabus can serve as a contract between students and faculty.
Elements of a Distance Learning Syllabus
There are some elements of a distance learning syllabus that are highly recommended and others that are optional, but may provide additional clarification for students depending on your course requirements.
Recommended Syllabus Element
Instructor information
• Be sure to list your name, title, department, e-mail, phone, and fax.
• Let students know the best way to contact you.
Contact policy
• Indicate your turnaround time for getting back to students. Consider you may want to indicate that you will respond within 24 hours, Monday through Friday. Allow students find out whether or not you will be available on weekends.
• You may want to schedule a couple hours a week when students can count on reaching you live either by phone or chat.
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