Designing an Engaging Syllabus: Practical Strategies for Learner-Centered Teaching

Welcome to this recorded webinar hosted by the Learner Engagement Division (LED) of AECT! 🎓✨

In this session, faculty and instructional designers explore practical, research-informed strategies for transforming the syllabus into a tool that does more than list course policies. Instead, it becomes a powerful invitation to learning and engagement.

🌟 What You’ll Learn

• Why the syllabus matters: Beyond logistics, the syllabus sets the tone for learner engagement and community building.

• Designing for intentionality: Tips on aligning course goals, assessments, and learning activities with clarity and purpose.

• Student-centered practices: Ways to frame policies, assignments, and expectations that empower and motivate students.

• Inclusive approaches: Strategies to create a welcoming learning environment that reflects diverse student needs.

• Practical examples: Real-world syllabus design techniques you can apply right away.

🎤 Featured in this Webinar

• Anne Fensie – President-Elect of the Learner Engagement Division, who opens with organizational updates and context.

• Guest Speakers – Share hands-on approaches to rethinking syllabi, making them more engaging, transparent, and learner-focused.

📅 About the Event

This webinar is part of LED’s monthly membership series leading up to the AECT Annual Convention in Las Vegas (October). Alongside professional updates and recognition of award winners, the highlight of this session is a rich discussion on practical syllabus design for engagement.

💡 Why Watch?

If you’re an instructor, instructional designer, or graduate student preparing to teach, this session will help you:

• Reframe your syllabus as a communication tool rather than a contract.

• Increase student buy-in through tone, accessibility, and clarity.

• Adopt strategies that promote equity, engagement, and active learning from day one.

🔗 Stay Connected

• Learn more about AECT’s Learner Engagement Division: https://aect.connectedcommunity.org/learnerengagement/home

• Join us for future webinars and events designed to support teaching innovation and learner success.

✨ Your syllabus is the first step toward building an engaging learning experience. This webinar equips you with the tools and inspiration to get started!