My Findings and Observations

1. I was researching syllabi, and I came across some that were simplistic in its forms and some that were detailed. Most of the topics were interdisciplinary in focusing on methods and theories in Psychology, sociology, anthropology, phenomenology etc….This syllabus was vast and very detailed. It outlines the aims of the course and the strict rubric the class must adhere too. Also, I was very shocked to see that there were actually exams for a class so heavily centered on discussion. I was wondering judging from our class, how the teacher was going to justify her marking knowing that multiple meanings can come out of readings. It is shocking to know that this was just a 200 level course, meant to be an introduction to religious studies. I like the fact that it kind of gives a background for the course. I don’t like some of the topics. I think themes are better to focus on for purpose of doing justice to course material.

The site: http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca

2. This is a more condense syllabus, with its focus on more terms we have discussed. Critical terms reader we used in our class covers a large amount of the classes. Emphasis is given to close readings of articles and class discussions. This one is more focused on themes and the amount of readings assigned per class are reasonable for a lose reading of material.

The Site: http://classes.colgate.edu/

3. This syllabus required more writing assignments. From the list of books that are required for the class is focused around theories more than methods. The additional readings (judging from the title) do give background information about methods. What I really like about this syllabus is that it requires the student to do interviews with faculty members from a different department. This is interesting in learning about the interdisciplinary dialogue, as discussed last week.

The Site: http://www.clas.ufl.edu/

4. This syllabus also focuses on Theorists, but there is a heavy weight of books dealing with methods on it as well. This is a program designed for students doing their Master. It focuses on research and class presentations. The good think about this presentation is it allows the class to lead discussion and promotes a better understanding of a particular theme. Although this is very time consuming. I guess that is why it is a Master’s program. I think it would be a lot harder for undergrads.

The Site: http://web.utk.edu