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Syllabi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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syllabi

[ˈsɪl.ə.baɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

academic usage

Syllabi are documents that outline the content, goals, and structure of a course. They serve as a guide for students, providing critical information about course requirements, assessments, and schedules. Typically, a syllabi will include a reading list, assignments, and a grading rubric. They can vary significantly from one course to another, reflecting the specific needs of the subject matter and teaching style. An effective syllabus is essential for clear communication between instructors and students.

Synonyms

course outline, curriculum, program.

Examples of usage

  • The professor distributed the syllabi at the beginning of the semester.
  • Students often refer to the syllabi for information on assignments and deadlines.
  • She was confused by the differing syllabi for similar courses.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Education

  • Syllabi are crucial for academic planning, helping both teachers and students stay on track throughout a course.
  • In many universities, a detailed syllabus is required to ensure transparency in grading and course expectations.
  • Some educators encourage students to contribute to the syllabus, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Cultural Significance

  • Different cultures have unique approaches to syllabi, reflecting their educational values and priorities.
  • In some societies, a syllabus may include local literature or historical context relevant to the course subject.
  • Syllabi can influence educational practices worldwide, contributing to international standards in teaching.

Psychology

  • A clear syllabus can reduce anxiety for students by providing them with a roadmap of what to expect.
  • Research suggests that well-structured syllabi improve student performance by clarifying learning objectives.
  • The act of reviewing a syllabus can enhance a student's motivation and engagement in the subject matter.

Digitalization

  • With the rise of online education, many syllabi are now available digitally, allowing for easy updates and access.
  • Some educational platforms offer customizable syllabi to adapt to diverse learner needs and paces.
  • In the digital age, syllabi can include links to online resources, making learning more interactive and resourceful.

Origin of 'syllabi'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'syllabus' comes from Latin, where it referred to a list of items or a summary.
  • It was later adopted into English, with the plural form 'syllabi' reflecting its Latin roots.
  • Originally, syllabi were used in ancient Roman education to outline course content.

The word 'syllabi' is derived from the Latin term 'syllabus', which itself has roots in Greek. In ancient Greek, 'syllabē' means 'a taking together' or 'a summation', indicating the idea of gathering or summarizing information. The term became more widely used in the context of education during the Renaissance, when institutions began formalizing the curriculum and establishing structured courses of study. Syllabi have evolved over time, adapting to the needs of academic environments, and they now play a critical role in modern education, guiding both teaching and learning processes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,957, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.