How to Import Content from a Previously Published Syllabus

Introduction

Simple Syllabus allows you to import content from a previously published syllabus. You can import the entire syllabus or select specific components to add to your current syllabus.

Before you Begin

Confirm that you are working in the correct Brightspace course and semester. Importing content does not replace your current syllabus; however, you should carefully review the selected content before completing the import to prevent duplicate or outdated information.

Access Your Course Syllabus

  1. Open your Course: From your Brightspace homepage, select the course containing the syllabus you want to complete.
  2. Open Simple Syllabus: From the course navigation bar, select Syllabus. Your course syllabus will open in Simple Syllabus. At the top of the page, you will see information about the course and the syllabus version currently in progress. The drop-down menu in the upper-right corner also includes a View/Dashboard option. The Dashboard provides another way to access and manage your assigned syllabi.

Review the Syllabus Tools

Several tools are available on the left side of the syllabus page:

Add, import, reset and help tools

  • Add: Select Add to add a new component or section to the syllabus. Before adding a component, review the entire syllabus to determine whether the section you need is already included.
  • Import: Select Import to copy content from a previously published syllabus available within your department. You can import the entire syllabus or select individual components. Importing content does not replace your current syllabus.
  • Reset: Select Reset to return the syllabus to its original template. Use this option carefully because it may remove changes you have already made.
  • Help: Select Help to access additional assistance or submit a support request through Simple Syllabus.

Import Content from a Previously Published Syllabus

  1. Open the Import Tool: Select Import from the menu on the left side of the syllabus page.Import tool option selected to import content from an existing course
  2. Search for a Syllabus: Search for the syllabus or enter the criteria from the syllabus that you want to use. Search options may include:
    • Term
    • Subject
    • Course number
    • Instructor
  3. Select a Syllabus: Review the search results and select the syllabus containing the content you want to import. After selecting a syllabus, you will be directed to the Import Content section.
  4. Choose the Content to Import: Choose one of the following options: 
    • Import the entire syllabus: Select this option to copy all available content.
    • Select specific content: Use the advanced option to choose individual components or sections.
    • When using the advanced option, open the drop-down menu for each section and select the content you want to copy.Choose content to import from an existing course syllabus
  5. Finalize Your Selections: After choosing the content you want to import, select Finalize. Review your selections carefully to confirm that the correct content will be added to your current syllabus.
  6. Start the Import: Select Start Import of the Following Content to begin the import process. When the import is complete, select Close to return to your syllabus. Review and Submit the Syllabus.
  7. Review the Imported Content: Review each imported component and update any information that no longer applies to the current course or semester. Pay particular attention to:
    • Course and instructor information
    • Important dates and deadlines
    • Assignments and assessments
    • Grading information
    • Course policies
    • Required materials
    • Tentative calendar of activities
    • Important: Carefully review the syllabus for duplicate, outdated, or missing content before submitting it.
  8. Use the accessibility checker to review the syllabus for potential accessibility issues. Continue reviewing and correcting the syllabus until all required components and accessibility issues have been resolved. Important: You will not be able to submit the syllabus until all identified issues have been corrected.
  9. Preview the Syllabus: Select Preview to see how the syllabus will appear to students. If you identify an issue, return to the editing page and make the necessary changes.
  10. Submit the Syllabus: When the syllabus is accurate and complete, select Submit. A confirmation message will appear when your syllabus has been submitted successfully.
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