Course outline exemplars

The course outlines linked below provide examples of ways to make the elements of the course design more transparent for students. The linked outlines were created using Waterloo’s Outline Tool.

ARBUS 400 Strategy and Program Integration

• Includes a “Teaching and Learning Practices” section that explains the rational of experiential learning in the context of the course (e.g., students will work in groups to operate a business).
• Provides cost estimates for course materials and clear instructions for how to access and purchase the required Coursepack.

REC 100 Introduction to the Study of Recreation and Leisure

• Details permitted and prohibited uses of GenAI within the context of the course, including direct links to University of Waterloo resources for documenting and citing AI use.
• Includes a note on large classes, specifically outlining guidelines regarding technology use, respect in the classroom, and instructor and student responsibilities in creating a supportive learning environment.
• Demonstrates a thoughtful approach to course communication and instructor willingness to support students; highlights places for students to check for answers before reaching out to instructor.

PLAN 210 Community Design Fundamentals for Planners

• Offers a detailed description of how and why design matters in the context of planning, specifically emphasizing the relevance of this course to all planning students.
• Highlights the in-person format of the course and provides information about the recording of lecture and studio tutorials.

ARTS 140 Crime and Punishment in Early Modern Europe

• Explains how students might make the best use of office hours using an inviting tone (i.e., clarifying concepts, assignment help, feedback on work, career advice, discussing interests).
• Includes a note on subject matter, different ways to participate around particularly sensitive topics, and the importance of co-creating a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

AFM 362 Corporate Taxation

• Links course learning outcomes to the School’s Program Level learning outcomes of a financial professional.
• Shows the alignment between course learning outcomes, assessments, and activities
• Provides clear explanations of the blended course format, along with lecture and learning activity expectations in order to help students prepare more effectively.

SYDE 548 User-Centred Design Methods

• Includes a blurb about the flipped classroom approach.
• Includes an alignment chart listing the connection between learning outcomes, graduate attributes, and assessments.
• Includes a detailed table of learning material cost information.
• Includes the Faculty of Engineering guiding principles text.

PHYS 233 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

• Directs students to infographic on LEARN highlighting the expected time commitment for course tasks and activities (e.g., pre-class work, class sessions, homework problems, worksheet and groupwork completion).
• Includes a statement on equity and inclusion that emphasizes the responsibilities of the instructional team and students; provides contacts in order of escalating seriousness.
• Incorporates a course alignment chart that illustrates alignment between learning outcomes, assessments, and activities.
• Details specific dates and times related to in-class assessments.