Center for Excellence in TeachingChallenging discussions 5: Lead a challenging discussion
Techniques for leading academic discussions, including defining terms, including all voices, and warning signs that a discussion is becoming challenging.
Resources: In-person
Challenging discussions 4: Plan a challenging discussion
Strategies for planning class discussions, including a positive class atmosphere, discussion norms, grading discussions, and acceptable sources of information.
Challenging discussions 3: Speaking about race and gender
Strategies to consider when discussing topics such as race and gender in classes.
Challenging discussions 1: Welcome and introduction
An introduction to the CET Challenging Discussions series and the principles guiding its development.
Deciding between synchronous & asynchronous modes of teaching
Considerations to inform your decision on when, why, and how course materials and activities should be accomplished asynchronously or synchronously.
USC Syllabus Template
This editable USC syllabus template has been significantly revised based on feedback, updated template guidance, and enhancements to student support information. All faculty are encouraged to use the new template for upcoming courses.
Highlights of the revision include:
- Updated guidance throughout the template with suggestions and resources for developing your syllabus.
- Revised guidance on academic integrity, including required syllabus language and adaptable AI policy examples.
- An updated Statement on University Academic and Support Systems with expanded resources and revised language.
Using this template helps ensure course materials reflect current university guidance, include the required Statement on University Academic and Support Systems, and communicate consistent, accurate information to students. Please check with your program or department for any additional syllabus requirements.
Revised July 2026
Course design syllabus review checklist
This syllabus review checklist was developed to include recommended course design practices relevant to most teaching environments at USC; it is editable so that schools may add or delete items to customize it to their needs.
Classroom teaching observation checklist
This classroom teaching observation checklist was developed to include recommended teaching practices relevant to most teaching environments at USC; it is editable so that schools may add or delete items to customize it to their needs.