Negotiating Your Syllabus

Abstract

We provide instruction for engaging students in negotiating their course syllabus. In contrast to the common conceptualization of the syllabus as an instructor-determined contract, we involve our students in developing the collaborative contract under which they will be evaluated. We discuss our successful facilitation of this activity and how to (a) determine instructor readiness, (b) develop an initial offer syllabus, (c) negotiate with students, and (d) provide an enriching experience for instructor and students. The exercise works especially well in negotiation, conflict management, or labor relations courses, but can be reframed to fit any management course involving influence within organizations.