Our colleagues across the University shared the following examples course policies from their syllabi. You are free to use and/or modify the language you find here as you build your courses. Thanks to all who contributed to this project!
This page is a continual work-in-progress. With your help, we hope to add and update it regularly. Check-in each semester to see new policies or samples, and, if you would like to contribute to this crowd-sourced project, please e-mail suggestions for policies and sample language to catl@uwgb.edu.
Required Policies
The following policies must be included on your syllabus in some form.
Disability Services
Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi. For more information about our policy, see: http://www.uwgb.edu/disability-services/resources/faculty/
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UW-Green Bay Policy on Individuals with Disabilities
If you need accommodations due to a disability, you must provide appropriate documentation to the Disability Services Office (Student Services Building, Room 1700, 920-465-2841 or email dis@uwgb.edu). Accommodation Request form completed by DS office will be delivered by you to me to discuss and implement reasonable accommodations. It is important that you do this early in the term as some accommodations can take several weeks to arrange.
Sample 1
In accordance to UW-Green Bay policy, if you have a disability and need academic accommodations, please contact the Disability Services Office (465-2841, dis@uwgb.edu or Student Services Building Room 1700) as soon as possible as some accommodations may take a several weeks to arrange. Once you are eligible for accommodations, you will need to contact me to discuss how accommodations will be implemented. To maintain the confidentiality of your request, please do not approach me before or after class to discuss your accommodation needs.
Sample 2
Consistent with federal laws and the policies of the University of Wisconsin, it is the policy of UW-Green Bay to provide appropriate and necessary accommodations to students with documented disabilities. If you are require any accommodations, please contact the Disability Services Coordinator at 465-2841, dis@uwgb.edu or Student Services Building Room 1700 as soon as possible to discuss what accommodations you need to have equal access. It is important that you do this early in the term as some accommodations can take several weeks to arrange. If you want additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Academic Integrity
Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi. For more information on our policy, see: UWS 14.03-14.04
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Sample 1
Ethics and Academic Honesty Policy: When you choose to take a course with an instructor, we enter into an ethical contract with each other. We should assume that I will design course activities and act in good faith to help you learn, and that you, as the student, will complete the course work yourself and to the best of your ability. That means that all course assignments should reflect your own, independent work. I am obligated to refer any incidences of plagiarism or cheating, including failing to appropriately cite source materials, representing the work of other students as your own, or submitting work written for previous courses in this course, to the Dean of Students office for disciplinary action. To avoid any problems, please make sure that you appropriately cite all information you use in course assignments, and that you complete all individual course work independently. If you’re unsure of how to cite your information or what requires citation, I and others are here to help! For more information, please refer to the text of UW System’s Academic Integrity Policy: http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/uws/14/
Sample 2
Plagiarism is cheating. Cheating is not allowed.
Avoiding plagiarism is very tricky. I will work to help everyone in the class to have an awareness of what plagiarism is and how to prevent it, as this skill is a cornerstone of successful academic writing and a central purpose of this course. Students willing to work through the process, ask questions, and be diligent about citations should not worry about plagiarism violations. To this end, students who are discovered to have unintentionally plagiarized due to lack of the understanding of the process will be required to revise assignments at a lowered grade, but may not automatically removed from the course or fail the assignment.
However, students discovered to be intentionally plagiarizing any submitted assignment in whole or in part will suffer immediate and severe consequences. Penalties may range from failing the assignment to expulsion from the university. For more information, please refer to the text of UW System’s Academic Integrity Policy: http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/uws/14/
Please be aware that this course utilizes a plagiarism detection tool that will scan your submit ted essays for work that is borrowed from other sources.
Other Statements to Consider:
Bereavement Policy
Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi. For more information on our policy, see: https://www.uwgb.edu/dean-of-students/assistance-advocacy/bereavement-policy.asp
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Sample 1:
Student Bereavement Policy: Upon approval from the Dean of Students, students who experience the death of a loved one are allowed one week, commencing from the day of notification to the Dean of Students, of excused absence. Students may also take a Bereavement Leave of Absence for the semester in which the death occurs. Permission to do so will occur upon consultation with the Dean of Students.
Sample 2:
Student Bereavement: Students who experience the death of a loved one can receive special accommodations and adjusted deadlines for assignments depending on their circumstance. All requests must be made through the Dean of Students’ office. You can find more on this policy at http://www.uwgb.edu/deanofstudents/policies_procedures/students/studentbereavement.html.
Inclusivity Policy
Many instructors choose to share an inclusivity policy to promote an inclusive classroom environment. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Sample 1
Non-Discrimination and Inclusivity Policy: I wish to confirm my conviction that a college campus must be a safe place for the discussion of ideas. As such, I expect each member of the class to treat one another with tolerance for ideas discussed from a variety of perspectives. I respect the dignity of every person and will not allow discrimination against anyone based on religion, age, disability, ethnic origin, race, gender, marital status, or sexual orientation. Let’s approach one another with good intentions and openness
Land Acknowledgement
In a continuing effort to create a more inclusive community, UW-Green Bay has adopted a formal land acknowledgment to honor our native peoples. The land acknowledgement was developed by our First Nations faculty in preparation for our inaugural Freshman Convocation. Faculty are encouraged to incorporate the land acknowledgment as part of their syllabi should they so choose.
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We at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay acknowledge the First Nations people who are the original inhabitants of the region. The Ho-Chunk Nation and the Menominee Nation are the original First People of Wisconsin and both Nations have ancient historical and spiritual connections to the land that our institution now resides upon.
Today, Wisconsin is home to 12 First Nations communities including the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Potawatomi Nation, Ojibwe Nation communities, Stockbridge-Munsee Band of the Mohican Nation, and the Brothertown Indian Nation.
Classroom Environment:
Similar to the inclusivity policy, many instructors include language about the sort of environment that enables learning and respectful debate. Some write this in advance of the course, while others include the students in it’s construction. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Sample 1
Classroom Environment: The classroom should be an arena for voicing opinions and arguments in the spirit of debate, but should also display civility and tolerance. Students will bring different experiences and beliefs to bear on the materials we read, and our discussions must allow for a range of viewpoints to be expressed. One of the central tenets of feminism is that the “the personal is political.” In other words, knowledge and social change cannot be divorced from lived experience. The ideas and issues that we discuss will often have direct bearing on students’ past experiences or personal philosophies, and it is reasonable to occasionally share these connections. At the same time, such comments should remain connected to the course readings, and allow for the participation of everyone in the class.
Sample 2
Class environment: In order to provide a stimulating and effective learning environment, everyone is expected to follow shared codes of conduct. As noted above, we will construct our own policies on the first few days of class. In order to foster fruitful discussions we should all strive to create an environment of mutual respect—for it to be mutual, we all have to have a stake.
All interactions in class should be civil, respectful, and supportive of an inclusive learning environment for all students. If you have any concerns about classroom participation or classroom dynamics, I encourage you to speak with me, with Dr. X, the X Department chair, or your advisor. You may also share your concerns with the University at http://www.uwgb.edu/phoenix-cares/.
Sample 3
Civility and Online Etiquette: Civility and decorum are expected at all times. You are welcome to your own opinion and encouraged to express it, but you must do so in a mature and sincere manner. You must also make sure your opinions are informed and well-supported – this is not your personal soapbox. You may find it helpful to review the UWGB guidelines for online etiquette, located at http://online.uwc.edu/technology/etiquette.
Preferred Name and Pronouns
Many instructors choose to list their preferred name and pronouns to promote an inclusive classroom environment. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Sample 1
Names and Pronouns: During the first week of class, I will ask you to write your preferred first name on the class sign-in roster. I will also invite you to make a nametag to use in class that includes your preferred gender pronouns. I see sharing gender pronouns as a gesture of respect and a reminder that we should not make assumptions about gender based upon physical appearance, names, etc. If you misgender someone (i.e., call someone who identifies as a woman “he,” or vice versa), the best practice is to apologize (concisely) and move on, without making a big scene.
Sample 2
Names, Pronouns, and Gender: If you have changed your name (officially or unofficially) from what appears in SIS, go by a nickname, or wish to specify a set of preferred or most appropriate pronouns, please feel free to ask me in person or by email. Everyone in this class has the right to be addressed and understood by their right name and their gender identity, and no one has the right to challenge anyone else’s self-identification. Everyone deserves trust and respect.
Class Attendance Policy
UWGB instructors adopt a wide variety of classroom attendance policies. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Sample 1
Attendance is required, not simply because you need to be present to learn, but also because we need you as part of our learning community. If you miss class, you are responsible for getting notes from a classmate and for checking email and D2L/Canvas for updates. If you miss consecutive days of class, please send me an email to inform me of your situation. Please arrive to class on time, as latecomers are a distraction to everybody in the room. Because I give all students three absences without penalty, I do not keep track of the reasons for every absence. If you have a special excused absence, such as university business, military service, or a serious family emergency, however, please do let me know.
Sample 2
Your participation is welcomed and encouraged as this is a gathering place where we can improve our listening and speaking on a range of social problems and issues. Participation will be evaluated in terms of evidence:
- of your preparedness for class (timeliness of assignments, demonstrating you have read the materials, etc.)
- that you are present in class in both body and mind (alert, paying attention, listening respectfully, etc.)
- of your active participation (asking questions, offering your perspective, providing constructive feedback to your colleagues, etc.)
- of your leadership and participation in small group discussions in class.
Teaching Philosophy
Many instructors share their teaching philosophy explicitly with students. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Sample 1
My general philosophy is I want to encourage you to think critically and observe the holistic connections between ideas. I am less interested in your recitation of terms and concepts and more in your understanding of how what we discuss in class ties together. I encourage you to challenge and debate what you learn in class, and never be afraid to ask questions.
Sample 2
TEACHING VALUES:
You can count on me to do these things:
- Give your exam review one class prior to the exam.
- I do not have any trick questions on the exam, what we talk about is what you will see.
- We may go off topic as we explore different questions and ideas that you are interested in instead of what is exactly on the syllabus.
- I will be as forgiving as I can with attendance, late assignments, and accommodating to you, but I will hold to the rules of the syllabus to ensure understanding and transparency.
- I will be a resource for you to grow from and a soft landing pad should you make a mistake.
- We will use collaborative-based learning as much as possible in this class to help you to be engaged in your learning.
Digital Devices in the Classroom
Many instructors include policies about the use of electronic or digital devices within the classroom. There is a wide variety as to how instructors tackle this issue. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Sample 1
Electronic Devices in the Classroom: There is now overwhelming evidence, based on systematic research, that “multi-tasking” with digital devices interferes badly with learning. Even having a smart phone on the table or desk takes a toll on concentration. Please silence and stow (out of sight) all mobile phones during class. No texting or messaging in class. If you are experiencing a personal emergency that requires you to take calls or receive text messages, consider taking advantage of the three emergency absences that I allow. Otherwise, please let me know about your situation and try to minimize disruptions. You may use a laptop computer, e-reader, or tablet in class for referring to assigned course materials, for in-class assignments, and for taking notes (although, based upon research into note-taking, I do not recommend that you try to type notes in class). Please avoid the temptation to check email, browse the web, etc., during class. If you have trouble staying focused on class, I recommend that you turn off wifi access unless you need it for a specific assignment or discussion.
Sample 2
Personal electronics – You may use your laptop or mobile devices to read the e-book version of the text or complete in-class assignments and exercises. However, using them for any activities that are not class-related activities is against course policy. Please also turn your cell phone to silent or turn it off altogether.
Late work/deadline policy
Most instructors include transparent language describing late work and/or policies about deadlines on their syllabus. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Sample 1
LATE ASSIGNMENTS:Late assignments will be accepted as circumstances in life do happen, but please be aware that scores will drop by 10% for each class session late.
Sample 2
Deadlines: Deadlines are important. They help us plan. They motivate us. They keep us on the same page so that we can work together. Submitting your work on time is an important part of completing assignments for college classes, not to mention other aspects of your life. I understand, however, that you may experience an emergency or other circumstance that could prevent you from submitting your work on time. If this happens, please communicate with me as soon as reasonably possible to negotiate an extension. (The only way to get an extension is to ask for it.) Then, when you have completed the assignment, please let me know via email. Keep in mind that if you submit late work, you may miss out on an opportunity to collaborate with or receive feedback from your peers, and your feedback from me may be delayed or reduced, depending on the situation.
Sample 3
Exams (Making Up): Because I understand that illnesses and unexpected emergencies do arise, I will allow you to make up one exam during the semester, under the condition that you exercise due diligence by contacting me with an email or phone message before the end of the class session when the exam takes place. At that time, you must let me know when you can take the exam within the next two business days. It is your responsibility to follow up immediately to schedule a make-up exam. (Note: make-up exams may differ from in-class exams.)
Student Resources to Consider:
UW-Green Bay offers a wide variety of support services for our students. Such services provide students the opportunity to spend more of their mental and physical energy on intellectual and personal growth. You may wish to include each resource on your syllabus, or, you may prefer to refer them to websites such as Phoenix Cares, which provides information to many (but not all) of these services. Click “show” to see sample language for your syllabi.
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Counseling and Health Center: http://www.uwgb.edu/counselinghealth/,SS1400, (920) 465-2380, Free 1:1 Counseling and Nursing visits. Provider visits at low or no cost.
Division of Student Affairs & Campus Climate resources: http://www.uwgb.edu/student-affairs/
Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs: http://www.uwgb.edu/mesa, Union 150, (920) 465-2720, mesa@uwgb.edu
Career Services, SS 1600, (920) 465-2163, careers@uwgb.edu Assistance with choosing majors/minors, exploring career options/fields, gaining experience/internships and preparing for success after graduation including seeking postgraduate employment & application to graduate & professional school.
Office of Student Life, Union 150, (920) 465-2464, www.uwgb.edu/student-life/- Events, activities and student organizations.
Pride Center, Union 153, (920)-465-2167, christis@uwgb.edu and https://www.facebook.com/uwgbpridecenter/notifications/
Veteran’s Services, SS 1100, (920) 465-2075, http://www.uwgb.edu/veterans/
Phoenix Emergency Grant Program: Facing a financial emergency? Apply for a one-time grant of up to $1,000 to pay for unanticipated financial expenses. http://www.uwgb.edu/emergencygrant/
Pride Center: Visit UU 150 for “a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for LGBTQ people and their allies.” https://www.uwgb.edu/pride-center/
The Learning Center (TLC): Free academic support, mentoring, and study groups. Visit the TLC on the Plaza Level of the Cofrin Library (CL 206). http://www.uwgb.edu/learning-center/
Writing Center: Drop by CL 206 (or call 920-465-2958) to make an appointment to go over your papers, etc., with a writing tutor. Even highly skilled writers benefit from having another writer review their work. http://www.uwgb.edu/writing-center/. Online tutoring is available.
Education Center for First Nations Studies: Visit with and learn from First Nations elders in an informal setting. Drop by Wood Hall 410 for more information.
The Learning Center
http://www.uwgb.edu/learning-center/about-us/
Sample 1
TLC offers FREE academic support in a variety of undergraduate subjects each semester. Courses affiliated with mentoring vary each semester during the spring and fall semesters. One-on-one sessions, drop-in hours and study groups are held by academic mentors that are subject area experts who have successfully completed the course, usually with the same professor. They are able to answer questions, review course material, assist with preparing for exams, guide discussion and provide tips on study strategies in the content area.
Phoenix Cares/Basic Resources
Sample 1
Basic Resources: Any student who has difficulty affording groceries or accessing sufficient food to eat every day, or who lacks a safe and stable place to live, and believes this may affect their performance in the course, is urged to contact the Dean of Students for support. Furthermore, please notify me or your academic advisor if you are comfortable doing so. This will enable us to connect you with an array of resources available on campus. You can also find information about these resources on our Phoenix Cares website: http://www.uwgb.edu/phoenix-cares/
Phoenix Emergency Grant Program
More information: http://www.uwgb.edu/emergencygrant/
Sample 1
Do you need help dealing with an unexpected financial challenge?
Do you have:
- An unexpected car repair?
- A job loss that is making it difficult to pay your rent or other bills?
- An unexpected medical or child care expense?
- Another type of financial emergency?
Then you may be eligible to apply for a Phoenix Emergency Grant.
For many students, a single unexpected expense can put their college goals in jeopardy. Last year alone, over 43% of first year students reported facing financial challenges that significantly impacted their ability to be successful in college.
To help students weather these financial emergencies, UWGB has created an Emergency Grant Program.
The UWGB Emergency Grant Program can provide undergraduates with a one-time grant of up to $1,000 to pay for unanticipated financial expenses that could otherwise interfere with students’ ability to stay in college and complete their degree.
Campus Cupboard
Sample 1
The Campus Cupboard is a student organization run by students, with the mission of providing an on-campus food pantry, clothing closet, and cleaning/personal hygiene products to ensure adequate basic needs are met of all students, faculty, and staff. The Campus Cupboard and Clothes Closet are located in the new ‘CK One’ space in Rose Hall 140 (in the corridor section between Wood and Rose Halls).
How to access the Cupboard
Students, staff, and faculty may use their university ID’s to access CK One, using a card swipe, between the hours of 7:00am and 9:00pm.
Contact advisor Dana Johnson by phone at 920-465-2346 or johnsond@uwgb.edu if you have questions or technical difficulties in entering the space.
Crisis and Mental Health Resources
Sample 1
We all have stresses and struggles in our lives. Conflict with friends or family, break ups, other kinds of loss, academic concerns, or issues with work/life balance. In addition to day-to- day life stresses people can have more long-term concerns (Depression, Anxiety, substance use concerns, eating concerns, etc…) The good news is your campus has free resources available to you to address these needs. When a concern arises or if you have any questions please seek out support from the UWGB Counseling and Health Center (920-465-2830). No concern is too big or too small.
In addition, if an urgent situation arises or if you or someone you care about is considering suicide or hurting others, don’t wait. Call the Counseling and Health Center (920-465-2380), Public Safety (920-465-2300), the local Crisis Center (920-436-8888), or 911 for immediate assistance. Don’t take a chance. Let a professional help. Act now.
UWGB Public Safety : https://www.uwgb.edu/publicsafety/
Counseling and Health : http://www.uwgb.edu/counseling-health/
Brown County Crisis Center : http://www.familyservicesnew.org/crisis-center/
