Which part of the syllabus do students tend to reference the most during a course?

Students frequently reference grading criteria during a course because it directly impacts their performance and expectations. Understanding how grades will be determined is crucial for students as they navigate assessments, assignments, and participation throughout the course. This helps them set goals for their academic performance and provides clarity on how to achieve the desired outcomes. Having clear grading criteria also allows students to manage their time and efforts effectively, ensuring they focus on areas that will maximize their grades.

While outcomes, electronic use policies, and course descriptions are important components of a syllabus, they tend to be referenced less frequently. Outcomes can guide the overall goals of the course, but the specific grading criteria will often be more pressing for students as they work towards achieving personal and academic benchmarks within the class.