Thursday, August 21st, 11:00AM-12:30PM, online synchronous

A well-crafted syllabus is a valuable tool that serves both faculty and students by communicating expectations, outlining the course structure, and supporting student success.   
In this 90 min interactive online session, participants will first explore the value and theory behind syllabus design, including how a syllabus can reduce cognitive load, support accessibility, and foster student engagement.   

In the second half of one session, participants will receive guided support as they begin creating or revising a syllabus using either a Word document or KPU’s Simple Syllabus platform, a software that offers mobile-friendly, screen reader-compatible formats that integrate with KPU systems. Both options will be supported, allowing participants to choose the format that best fits their context or comfort level.   

Participants are encouraged to bring relevant course materials, such as a course outline, schedule, and assessment plan, to make the most of this practical session.

Through engaging in the activities and content of this workshop, you have the opportunity to 

  1. Recognize the pedagogical purpose of a syllabus and its role in fostering reflective teaching practices and student success.
  2. Examine how frameworks such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and open pedagogy can enhance syllabus clarity, reduce cognitive load, and support inclusive, accessible learning.
  3. Create or revise a course syllabus using a Word document or the Simple Syllabus platform.