Syllabus Course Policies and Procedures

Policies are built into the Simple Syllabus template. Include the required policies, but rather than presenting policies as rules alone, provide the rationale behind them and frame expectations in positive, action-oriented language (Ganon, 2023). This approach helps students understand the purpose of course policies and promotes a more collaborative learning environment.

Policies and procedures to consider:

• Attendance
  • Check college or departmental policies
  • Explain why it is important to be in class
  • Procedure for reporting absence
  • Inclement weather or emergencies
  • Religious observances and accommodations
  • Example Policy:  “Please be here, and be engaged when you are here.  This class works best when all of us are involved in discussing and learning the material, and it’s more interesting and meaningful for all of us when that occurs.  Having said that, I do understand that there are times when something will prevent your attendance: illness, emergencies, university events requiring travel, etc. If an emergency occurs, please contact me as soon as possible and we will discuss any missed assignments.  If we keep the lines of communication open, we will be able to better handle any situations that may arise. Thanks for your help with this” (Gannon, 2018).  
• Communication Expectations
  • Explain the expectations for communication outside of class time
  • Netiquette
  • Example: If you need to contact me outside of class time, please feel free to email me at xxxxxx@uthsc.edu. Please reach out to me concerning any academic or personal concerns/questions.  I will do my best to respond to all emails within 24 hours. 
• Generative AI
  • What is your policy on how students should engage with generative AI when completing assignments or other tasks for your class.
  • Examples:

    • • Usage permitted in your course with appropriate acknowledgment

        "In this course, the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) including but not limited to ChatGPT is permitted to augment the learning experience. As such, the use of AI must be appropriately acknowledged and cited. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the accuracy of the output including references received from the Generative AI tool and that its usage complies with the UTHSC Honor Code and ideals of academic integrity. Violations of this policy will be considered academic dishonesty.

        Keep in mind that this policy is specifically for this course and other courses may have more restrictive policies"

      • Usage permitted on certain assignments with appropriate acknowledgment

"In this course, the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) including but not limited to ChatGPT is permitted only on certain assignments as indicated by the instructor/faculty. When allowed, the use of AI must be appropriately acknowledged and cited. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the accuracy of the output including references received from the Generative AI tool and that its usage complies with the UTHSC Honor Code and ideals of academic integrity. Violations of this policy will be considered academic dishonesty.

Keep in mind that this policy is specifically for this course and other courses may have less or more restrictive policies."

• • • Usage not permitted

"In this course, the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence including but not limited to ChatGPT is strictly prohibited. Violations of this policy will be considered academic dishonesty.

Keep in mind that this policy is specifically for this course and other courses may have less restrictive policies."

• Technology Use
  • What technology will students be required to use in your course?
  • Example:  In this course we will be using Blackboard for all course materials, assignments, discussion boards, and assessments. I will post any important announcements on Blackboard so please check the site often. If you need any help with Blackboard or have any technology issues, you can email me or call the UT IT Support Desk.