Example Document Course Syllabus.doc

NMLS Sample Course Syllabus

Introduction to this Model Document:

The course syllabus is a tool for communicating what the instructor wants students to know and do. It acts as a “road map” for the class and puts the students on the same path as the instructor. By setting the tone and describing the course structure, the syllabus is critical in implementing effective learning. Because of its importance in guiding learning, all NMLS approved courses are required to have and distribute a course syllabus at the beginning of each course offering. This document contains four syllabi examples; one version for each course format (online instructor-led, online self-study, classroom, classroom equivalent) which have been provided for reference.

The sample syllabi are based on a fictional course. The fictional course teaches course providers how to use the 2012 Functional Specifications for All NMLS Approved Courses to build courses that provide effective and lasting learning. There are several different ways to format a syllabus and many different teaching methods. NMLS is not promoting one structure or strategy over another, NMLS is simply providing examples which can be used to guide the structure of your own course syllabus. You are more than welcome to use the sample syllabus as a model or template for your own.

Things to note in each sample syllabus:

All syllabi must have basic information such as:o Course Descriptiono Course Date(s) and Timeso Instructor Contact Information (if applicable)o Course Objectives / Goalso Learning Objectives to meet the Course Objectives/Goalso Topical Outline with Time Allocationso Course Completion Requirementso Requirement(s) for Text and or Other Materialso School Policieso Any Technology Requirements (if applicable)o Technical support (if applicable)

Notice how the course flows in the syllabus. The module assignments support and measure the learning objectives, and the learning objectives support the course objectives. The syllabus can be used as a “snapshot” of the course at a high level to ensure that your content and assignments flow together and support each other. This flow sets the students up for a good learning experience.

Notice how the syllabus clearly manages students’ expectations on time allocations, what will be taught, what the students will learn, completion expectations, contact information, etc. Many of the basic questions a student will have can and should be answered in the syllabus.

The same course can be offered in each format, but note how the structure, requirements, activities, etc. change depending on the format.

NMLS Sample Course Syllabus 5/21/12 V2 Page 1

Table of Contents:

Online Instructor-Led Sample Pages 3-8

Online Self-Study Sample Pages 9-13

Classroom Sample Pages 14-19

Classroom Equivalent Sample Pages 20-25

NMLS Sample Course Syllabus 5/21/12 V2 Page 2

Conference of State Bank Supervisors1129 20th Street, NW, 9th Floor

Washington, DC 200361800-555-5555

3 Hour SAFE PE – Putting the 2012 Functional Specifications into Motion (NMLS ID 1234)

Course Syllabus

Course Purpose:

For many, the “American Dream” is home ownership. A critical role in making that dream possible is the Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) and the NMLS Approved Course Providers who educate these MLOs. The Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 (SAFE Act) requires that state-licensed MLOs complete NMLS approved pre-licensure education and annual continuing education. In order to meet this mandate, NMLS has set forth functional specifications for all NMLS approved courses in an effort to establish good administration standards and ensure education is offered in accordance with the intent of the SAFE Act. NMLS approved education sets the groundwork for MLOs across the nation to help people reach their dream of home ownership, thus making the education you, as the course provider, are providing a critical role in the health of the mortgage industry.

Course Description:

This course brings the 2012 NMLS Course Functional Specification to life. Through discussions, activities, real world examples, and short presentations, this course will bring forth some of the components of the newest functional specifications and also answer some of the questions or concerns that course providers have regarding implementation. While gaining an understanding of the newest functional specifications, you will gain an understanding of how these specifications can be used to build an engaging course that promotes effective learning that your students will remember for years to come.

Course Dates and Times:March 16, 2012; readings and assignments due to instructor by midnightMarch 17, 2012; readings and assignments due to instructor by midnight

Instructor Contact Information:

Instructor: John SmithEmail: [email protected] number: 202-296-2840Office Hours: M-F 8am-4pm; and I regularly check my email

Instructor Background:

Instructor and CEO of Mortgage Learning School 2005-presentMortgage Loan Originator Training 2000-2009Mortgage Loan Originator 1990-2000Mortgage Loan Originator Intern 1990

NMLS Sample Course Syllabus 5/21/12 V2 – Online Instructor Led Page 3

Course Objectives:

Recognize how different perspectives influenced the specifications and the intended effect on education

Demonstrate how to achieve similar learning objectives across different course formats Show proficiency in critically reading, analyzing, comparing, evaluating, and discussing the functional

specifications and apply learning to their own courses

Required Course Material: 2012 NMLS Course Functional Specifications

Grading Policy:

In order to receive credit for the course, participants must complete 100% of the course activities with satisfactory responses and spend the required minimum time in the course. If an assignment is found to be unsatisfactory, the student must revise and re-submit by the due date given by the instructor. Course activities are comprised of discussion board postings, readings, study groups, activities and short quizzes. End of module quizzes must be passes with 100%. You may take the quizzes as many times as needed to pass. The written part of the final assessment will be graded with a pass/fail by the instructor and the final exam must be passed with a minimum score of 70%. You will have 3 attempts to pass both portions of the final assessment. After 3 attempts, you will be required to enroll in a new course and retake the course in its entirety.

This course is online instructor-led and must be taken in accordance with the schedule below. Course information, activities and assignments will be made available for the specified dates. Students WILL NOT be allowed to move ahead of course assignments or activities without the advancement of the entire cohort, or class, as a whole. Assignments are to be completed and turned in by the due dates as posted. Failure to meet deadlines may result in receiving a “Fail” in the course. Any student who fails the course must re-enroll to complete course again with another class.

Upon completion all students will receive a course completion certificate and 3 hours of education credit.

Course Policies:

All students must be honest and forthright in their academic studies. To falsify the results of one's research, to steal the words or ideas of another, to cheat on an assignment, or to allow or assist another to commit these acts corrupts the educational process. Students are expected to do their own work and neither give nor receive unauthorized assistance. Any violation of this standard could lead to automatic withdrawal from the course without credit or refund.

Course should be taken in a quiet, distraction free area.

Technical Requirements/ Support:

Course is compatible with all major web browsers. A high speed internet connection is recommended.

Technical Support is available Mon.-Sat. 8am – 8pm at 188-555-5555


http://mortgage.nationwidelicensingsystem.org/courseprovider/Course%20Provider%20Resources/2012%20Functional%20Specification%20RLM.pdf

Course Outline:

Introduction: This course is an online instructor-led course. This means the instructor will facilitate and encourage the class to get to know each other, foster a sense of community in the class, and help students learn from each other. To get us started, please tell us on the discussion board your name, where you are taking the course geographically, and your professional interest in this course. Please also review what your classmates have said and respond to at least two of them by asking a question and/or sharing an observation.

Section 1: Requirement for All Course Types Details specific requirements for all course formats, including key terms, time requirements, requirements for interaction, and end of course assessments.

Learning Objectives: Define keys terms in the functional specifications in order to communicate concisely with peers

and NMLS on compliance Describe how the perspectives of key players (regulator, student, course provider) influence the

requirements in the functional specifications. Demonstrate how the specifications can be tools for implementing meaningful learning

Modules:- 1.1 Glossary of Terms (5 min)- 1.2 What’s New in Version 3 of the functional specifications (5 min)- 1.3 Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time (10 min)- 1.4 Course Materials: Keys for Student Success (5 min)- 1.5 Course Content Organization: Organizing for Effective Learning (5 min)- 1.6 Interaction: Active Learning for Lifetime Success (10 min)- 1.7 Reviewing Content: Matching Objectives, Materials and Assessment (10 min)- 1.8 End of Course Assessment: Evidence of Understanding (5 min)

Assignments:#1.A – In your own words, provide a scenario that illustrates the terms at the end of module 1.1. Submit to instructor using the message board (5 min)

#1.B – Describe an activity that encourages each of the following types of interaction: instructor to student, student to student, and student to content interaction. Post to the Discussion Board. Read your classmates postings and respond to at least two other people. (5 min)

#1.C – Explain from the perspective of the regulator, course provider, or student why the updates to the functional specifications were implemented in version 3. Post to the discussion board and respond to one other person (5 min)

#1.D –Review the sample course provided at the end of Module 1 and identify the strategies used in that course to meet the NMLS requirements. Then evaluate in your own words if you feel the course implements meaningful learning. Be sure to reference the functional specifications. Post response to discussion board and respond to one other person (10 min)


Section 2: Requirements for Online CoursesProvides information on course interactivity requirements, course design, LMS requirements, and outlines the process for online instructor-led and online self-study formats.

Learning Objectives: Compare and contrast the requirements for the online instructor-led and the online self-study

format and provide an explanation for the difference. Demonstrate how the specifications can be tools for implementing meaningful learning in an

online environment

Modules:- 2.1 General Course Set-up: The LMS (5 min)- 2.2 Course Design: Making the Online Platform Work (10 min)- 2.3 Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time Online (10 min)- 2.4 Interaction: Active Learning Online (15 min)- 2.5 End of Course Assessment: Evidence of Understanding (5 min)

Assignments:#2.A – Compare and Contrast the requirements for an online instructor-led course and an online self-study course and elaborate on the different strategies in learning. Submit to instructor for review through the message board. (10 min) #2.B -- Post to the discussion board which of the requirements for online instructor-led courses best helps to facilitate interaction. Why or why not? Respond to at least one of your classmate’s postings. Be certain to include in your reply why or why not you think that his or her suggestion(s) would work. (5 min)

or#2.B -- Post to the discussion board which of the requirements for online self-study best helps to facilitate interaction. Why or why not? Respond to at least one of your classmate’s postings. Be certain to include in your reply why or why not you think that his or her suggestion(s) would work. (5 min)

End of Course Assessment

Part One: Written Assessment (10 min)What configuration changes would you need to make in order to move a course from an online self-study to an online instructor-led? Be sure to include information on time requirements, end-of-course assessments, course design and interaction. Submit to instructor for review using the Message Board.

Part Two: Multiple Choice Exam (20 min)You will have 20 minutes to complete a 25 question multiple choice exam. You must receive a 70% score to pass.


Course Schedule:

The course will be offered over two days. Below are the readings and assignments with due dates, and an estimation of the time needed to complete each module. Please be advised that the time for completion is estimated; it may take you more or less time to complete the material and assignments. ALL modules invite class participation.

Course Outline and Schedule (Readings and Assignments Due by Midnight Each Day)Schedule Module Reading Due Assignments Due Estimated Instruction

Time (Minutes)

Friday March 16, 2012

Introduction

Introduction Presentation

Introduce Yourself in the Discussion Board

5

1.1: Glossary of Terms Module 1.1 Presentation and Pages 33-34 in Functional Specifications

Assignment 1.A 10

1.2: What’s New in Version 3 of the functional specifications

Module 1.2 Presentation and Pages 4-5 in Functional Specifications

Pass Module 1.2 Quiz 5

1.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time

Module 1.3 Presentations and Pages 11-12 in Functional Specifications


1.4: Course Materials: Keys for Student Success



1.5: Course Content Organization: Organizing for Effective Learning

Module 1.5 Presentation and Page 15 of Functional Specifications


1.6: Interaction: Active Learning for Lifetime Success


Assignment 1.B 15

1.7: Reviewing Content: Matching Objectives, Materials and Assessment

Module 1.7 Presentation


1.8: End of Course Assessment: Evidence of Understanding




End of Section 1 Assignment

N/A Assignments 1.C and 1.D

15

Schedule Module Reading Due Assignments Due Estimated Instruction

Time (Minutes)

Saturday March 17, 2012

2.1: General Course Set-up: The LMS



2.2: Course Design: Making the Online Platform Work

Module 2.2 Presentation and Pages 25-26 & 29-31


2.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time Online

Module 2.3 Presentation and Pages 26 & 31-32


2.4: Interaction: Active Learning Online


Assignment 2.A 25


Module 2.5 Presentation and Pages 17-18 & 26

Assignment 2.B 10


n/a Final Assessment Part 1 and 2

35

Estimated Total Course Time (Minutes) 180




Washington, DC 200361800-555-5555

2 Hour SAFE CE – Putting the 2012 Functional Specifications into Motion (NMLS ID 5678)

Course Syllabus

Course Purpose:


Course Description:

This course brings the 2012 NMLS Course Functional Specification to life. Through activities, real world examples, and short presentations, this course will bring forth some of the components of the newest functional specifications and also answer some of the questions or concerns that course providers have regarding implementation. While gaining an understanding of the newest functional specifications, you will gain an understanding of how these specifications can be used to build an engaging course that promotes effective learning that your students will remember for years to come.

Course Dates and Times:

You must complete this course no later than December 23, 2012 in order to receive the course credit in time for 2012 license renewal period. This allows 7 calendars for your credits to be reported and a day for the CE restriction for license renewal to be lifted. This time ensures you can complete your renewal process in NMLS before the renewal deadline.

Course Objectives:




NMLS Sample Course Syllabus 5/21/12 V2 – Online Self-Study Page 10

Grading Policy:

Course activities are comprised of end of module quizzes, readings, and activities. In order to receive credit for the course, participants must complete 100% of the course activities, earn 100% on each end of module quiz, and earn a minimum score of 70% on the final exam.

This course is online self-study. This means that you will guide yourself through the material and activities under no set schedule. You must be engaged and active in the course for the requisite amount of time in each module before you can move on to the next module. If inactivity is detected, you will be logged out of the course and will be sent to the beginning of the unit of instruction you were last on and no time will be granted for that unit.


Course Policies:


Course should be taken in a quiet, distraction free area.


Course is compatible with all major web browsers. A high speed internet connection is recommended.Technical Support is available Mon.-Sat. 8am – 8pm at 188-555-5555

Required Course Material:

2012 NMLS Course Functional Specifications

Course Outline:

Introduction This course is an online self-paced meaning that you will be moving through the course on your own. To help provide some guidance, please watch the LMS tutorial which will provide you with the instructions you will need to navigate the course. (5 min)


Learning Objectives: Define keys terms in the functional specifications in order to communicate concisely with

peers and NMLS on compliance



Describe how the perspectives of key players (regulator, student, course provider) influence the requirements in the functional specifications.

Demonstrate how the specifications can be tools for implementing meaningful learning


Assignments:#1.A – Match the scenario provided with the appropriate glossary term. (5 min)#1.B – Organize the course materials provided into sections, modules, and units of instruction. Then match the appropriate learning objectives. (5 min)#1.C –Review the sample course provided at the end of Module 1, and in the check-list provided, mark off the tools that you see implemented in the course. Then match the tools to the learning strategy that best describes its accomplishment for effective learning. (5 min)


Learning Objectives: Compare and contrast the requirements for the online instructor-led and the online self-

study format and provide an explanation for the difference. Demonstrate how the specifications can be tools for implementing meaningful learning in

an online environment


Assignments:#2.A – Review each scenario provided and decide whether it relates to online instructor-led, online self-study, or both. (5 min)

Final Assessment

Multiple Choice Exam (20 min)You will have 20 minutes to complete a 25 question multiple choice exam. If you do not receive a passing score, you may take re-take the exam after 1 hour wait period in which you are encouraged to review the materials.


Course Schedule:

Course Outline and Schedule

Module Reading/Presentation Assignments Due Instruction Time Allocation (Minutes)

Introduction

Course Navigation Presentation

N/A 5

1.1: Glossary of Terms Module 1.1 Presentation and Pages 33-34 in Functional Specifications

Assignment 1.AEnd of Module 1.1 Quiz

10

1.2: What’s New in Version 3 of the functional specifications


End of Module 1.2 Quiz 5

1.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time

Module 1.3 Presentations and Pages 11-12 in Functional Specifications


1.4: Course Materials: Keys for Student Success



1.5: Course Content Organization: Organizing for Effective Learning

Module 1.5 Presentation and Page 15 of Functional Specifications

End of Module 1.5 QuizAssignment 1.B

10

1.6: Interaction: Active Learning for Lifetime Success



1.7: Reviewing Content: Matching Objectives, Materials and Assessment

Module 1.7 Presentation End of Module 1.7 Quiz 10



End of Module 1.8 QuizAssignment 1.C

10

Below are the readings and assignments with an estimation of the time needed to complete each module. Please be advised that the time for completion is estimated; it may take you more or less time to complete the material and assignments.

Module Reading Due Assignments Due Instruction Time Allocation (Minutes)

2.1: General Course Set-up: The LMS



2.2: Course Design: Making the Online Platform Work




2.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time Online

Module 2.3 Presentation and Pages 26 & 31-32


2.4: Interaction: Active Learning Online


Assignment 2.A End of Module 2.4 Quiz

20


Module 2.5 Presentation and Pages 17-18 & 26


End of Course Assessment n/a Final Exam 20

Total Course Time (Minutes) 130



Washington, DC 200361800-555-5555


Course Syllabus

Course Purpose:


Course Description:


Course Dates, Times, Locations:March 17, 2012; 9:00am – 12:00pm ET29 Main StreetWashington, DC 11111





NMLS Sample Course Syllabus 5/21/12 V2 – Classroom Page 15

Course Objectives:





Grading Policy:

In order to receive credit for the course, participants must complete 100% of the course activities with satisfactory responses and spend the required minimum time in the class. Course activities are comprised of discussions, readings, study groups, and activities. The final exam must be passed with a minimum score of 70%. You will have 3 attempts to pass the final assessment. After 3 attempts, you will be required to enroll in a new course and retake the course in its entirety.

All students are expected to be in their seats by the course start time. Tardiness may result is a “fail” in the course. Students are required to present photo ID and sign the attendance sheet upon arrival. If a student leaves the classroom, he or she must sign out and back in. You must be present and attentive for the full course time in order to receive course credit.


Course Policies:


Please be courteous and respectful to your instructor and classmates.



Course Outline:

Introduction: The instructor will facilitate and encourage the class to get to know each other, foster a sense of community in the class, and help students learn from each other. To get us started, please tell us your name, and your professional interest in this course.






Assignments:#1.A – Explain from the perspective of the regulator, course provider, or student why the updates to the functional specifications were implemented in version 3. Class Discussion. (5 min)

#1.B – Describe an activity that encourages each of the following types of interaction: instructor to student, student to student, and student to content interaction. Answers will be discussed in class. (5 min)

#1.C –Review the sample course provided at the end of Module 1 with your team and identify the strategies used in that course to meet the NMLS requirements. Then discuss with your teammates if you feel the course implements meaningful learning. Be sure to reference the functional specifications. Team answers will be shared and discussed in class. (10 min)





online environment


Assignments:#2.A – With your team, discuss which of the requirements for online instructor-led courses best helps to facilitate interaction. Then, discuss which requirements for online self-study best helps to facilitate interaction. Why or why not? Answers will be shared and discussed in class. (5 min)

#2.B – Compare and Contrast the requirements for an online instructor-led course and an online self-study course and elaborate on the different strategies in learning. Answers will be discussed in class. (5 min)


Part One: Written Assessment (10 min)What configuration changes would you need to make in order to move a course from an online self-study to an online instructor-led? Be sure to include information on time requirements, end-of-course assessments, course design and interaction. Class discussion; Participation Required.



Course Schedule:

Below is the course schedule. Please be advised that the time for completion is estimated and may vary from this outline. ALL modules invite class participation.

Course Outline and Schedule Schedule Module

9:00-9:05 Introduction

9:05-9:10 1.1: Glossary of Terms

9:10-9:20 1.2: What’s New in Version 3 of the Functional Specification; Assignment 1.A

9:20-9:25 1.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time

9:25-9:30 1.4: Course Materials: Keys for Student Success

9:30-9:35 1.5: Course Content Organization: Organizing for Effective Learning

9:35-9:50 1.6: Interaction: Active Learning for Lifetime Success; Assignment 1.B

9:50-9:55 1.7: Reviewing Content: Matching Objectives, Materials and Assessment

9:55-10:00 1.8: End of Course Assessment: Evidence of Understanding

10:00-10:10 Assignment 1.C

10:10-10:35 Break


Schedule Module10:35-10:40 2.1: General Course Set-up: The LMS

10:40-10:50 2.2: Course Design: Making the Online Platform Work

10:50-11:00 2.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time Online

11:00-11:15 2.4: Interaction: Active Learning Online; Assignment 2.A

11:15-11:25 2.5: End of Course Assessment: Evidence of Understanding; Assignment 2.B

11:25-12:00 End of Course Assessment



Washington, DC 200361800-555-5555


Course Syllabus

Course Purpose:


Course Description:


Course Dates and Times:March 17, 2012; 9:00am – 12:00pm ETUse the username and password you created upon registration





NMLS Sample Course Syllabus 5/21/12 V2 – Classroom Equivalent (Webinar) Page 21

Course Objectives:





Grading Policy:

In order to receive credit for the course, participants must complete 100% of the course activities with satisfactory responses and spend the required minimum time in the class. Course activities are comprised of discussions, readings, polls, and end of module quizzes. End of module quizzes must be passed with 80%. You may retake the quizzes as many times as needed. The final exam must be passed with a minimum score of 70%. You will have 3 attempts to pass the final assessment. After 3 attempts, you will be required to enroll in a new course and retake the course in its entirety.

All students are expected to be logged in and ready by the course start time. Tardiness may result is a “fail” in the course. Students are required to answer several personal information questions upon login to verify their identity. You must be present and attentive for the full course time in order to receive course credit. The instructor will use these personal information questions throughout the course to ensure you are present.


Course Policies:


Please be courteous and respectful to your instructor and classmates.


Course is compatible with all major web browsers. A high speed internet connection is recommended.

Technical Support is available Mon.-Sat. 8am – 8pm at 188-555-5555



Course Outline:

Introduction: The instructor will facilitate and encourage the class to get to know each other, foster a sense of community in the class, and help students learn from each other. To get us started, please tell us your name, and your professional interest in this course.






Assignments:#1.A – Explain from the perspective of the regulator, course provider, or student why the updates to the functional specifications were implemented in version 3. Class Discussion. (5 min)

#1.B – Describe an activity that encourages each of the following types of interaction: instructor to student, student to student, and student to content interaction. Answers will be shared in class. (5 min)

#1.C –Review the sample course provided at the end of Module 1 and identify the strategies used in that course to meet the NMLS requirements. Then evaluate in your own words if you feel the course implements meaningful learning. Be sure to reference the functional specifications. Answers will be shared and discussed in class. (10 min)





online environment


Assignments:#2.A – In your opinion, which of the requirements for online instructor-led courses do you think best helps to facilitate interaction. Which requirements for online self-study courses do you think best helps to facilitate interaction. Why or why not? Answers will be shared and discussed in class. (5 min)

#2.B – Compare and Contrast the requirements for an online instructor-led course and an online self-study course and elaborate on the different strategies in learning. Answers will be shared in class. (5 min)


Part One: Discussion Assessment (10 min)What configuration changes would you need to make in order to move a course from an online self-study to an online instructor-led? Be sure to include information on time requirements, end-of-course assessments, course design and interaction. Class discussion; Participation Required.



Course Schedule:

Below is the course schedule. Please be advised that the time for completion is estimated and may vary from this outline. ALL modules invite class participation.

Course Outline and Schedule Schedule Module

9:00-9:05 Introduction

9:05-9:10 1.1: Glossary of Terms; Quiz

9:10-9:20 1.2: What’s New in Version 3 of the Functional Specification; Assignment 1.A

9:20-9:25 1.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time; Quiz

9:25-9:30 1.4: Course Materials: Keys for Student Success: Quiz

9:30-9:35 1.5: Course Content Organization: Organizing for Effective Learning: Quiz

9:35-9:50 1.6: Interaction: Active Learning for Lifetime Success; Assignment 1.B

9:50-9:55 1.7: Reviewing Content: Matching Objectives, Materials and Assessment; Quiz

9:55-10:00 1.8: End of Course Assessment: Evidence of Understanding; Quiz

10:00-10:10 Assignment 1.C

10:10-10:35 Break


Schedule Module10:35-10:40 2.1: General Course Set-up: The LMS; Quiz

10:40-10:50 2.2: Course Design: Making the Online Platform Work: Quiz

10:50-11:00 2.3: Time Requirements: Ensuring Seat Time Online: Quiz

11:00-11:15 2.4: Interaction: Active Learning Online; Assignment 2.A

11:15-11:25 2.5: End of Course Assessment: Evidence of Understanding; Assignment 2.B

11:25-12:00 End of Course Assessment


Documents

Example Document Course Syllabus.doc