The course syllabus is the most essential yet the most unread document in most classes. Many instructors choose the “post a PDF” option in the course and direct students to it.
PDFs are fine for readings, but they are not the best format for accessibility. When you save your syllabus as a PDF, you likely won’t have optimized it for screen readers. A better choice is to use a Google doc for your syllabus or simply paste your syllabus content directly onto the Syllabus page in Canvas.
The Syllabus page in Canvas offers a better solution that quickly helps students find important information - especially assignment due dates. You can take your traditional syllabus and make it into a more student-friendly place.
While you can still upload your PDF to the Syllabus page in Canvas, you’re missing some great features if you stop there. The Syllabus page has a Course Summary that populates with course assignments. When you attach due dates to assignments, those appear on the Syllabus page and in your students’ calendars and to-do lists. There’s also a helpful Jump to Today link at the top so students can get right to what’s due right now.
Need help with your course? Our Instructional Design team offers consultations. Reach out: help@collaborate.ucsb.edu