Transitioning a syllabus from in-person to asynchronous requires rethinking course structure, communication, and engagement to ensure students have clear guidance and support. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Adjust Course Structure & Schedule

Shift from fixed meeting times to flexible deadlines

Instead of lectures at set times, break content into weekly modules with clear due dates.
Label modules by topic and timeframe (e.g., "Week 1: Introduction to Marketing").
Use checklists to help students stay on track.

Plan for lecture content delivery

Pre-record lectures using tools like HeyGen, Panopto, Kaltura, or Zoom recordings.
Keep videos short (5–15 minutes each) and break them into digestible segments.
Use text summaries or slides for students who prefer reading over video.

Step 2: Revise Communication & Interaction Expectations

Update office hours & instructor availability

Replace in-person office hours with scheduled Zoom drop-ins or discussion board Q&As.
Specify response times for emails and Canvas messages (e.g., "I will respond within 24–48 hours").

Set clear participation expectations

Instead of live discussions, require weekly discussion board posts with response deadlines.
Use tools like VoiceThread or video responses to make discussions more engaging.
Encourage peer-to-peer interaction to replace classroom conversations.

Step 3: Modify Assessments & Assignments

Adapt quizzes & exams for online learning

Use Canvas Quizzes with settings like randomized questions and time limits to prevent cheating.
Consider open-book or application-based questions instead of memorization tests.
Provide clear instructions on academic integrity (e.g., "Collaboration is not allowed on individual assignments").

Redesign assignments for online submission

Require students to submit work via Canvas Assignments instead of in-class handouts.
Offer options for students to submit work via text, video, or slides where applicable.

Step 4: Ensure Accessibility & Inclusivity

Make course materials accessible

Provide captions for all videos to support students with hearing impairments.
Use readable fonts and clear formatting to improve usability.
Offer materials in multiple formats (e.g., PDFs, slides, and transcripts).

Clarify policies on flexibility & accommodations

Recognize that students may be in different time zones or have varying internet access.
Set reasonable grace periods for deadlines to account for technical issues.
Include a statement on disability services and how students can request accommodations.

Step 5: Finalize & Integrate Into Canvas

Upload syllabus & organize course materials

Place the syllabus in a clearly labeled "Start Here" module in Canvas.
Break down content into weekly modules with instructions, readings, and assignments.

Test the course from a student’s perspective

Use the Student View feature in Canvas to ensure instructions are clear.
Double-check that all links, videos, and files are accessible and working.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your syllabus supports an engaging, well-structured, and accessible asynchronous learning experience.

For a personalized consultation, please contact the Trulaske Instrutional Technologist, Angela Knoerr.