Outcomes
In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:
1. Examine the field of Political Science as a major discipline within the Social Sciences.
10. Report research findings to the class (see objective 9). (Assessment: individual research project, in-class presentation of research)
2. Distinguish between major Political Science sub-disciplines:
2a. Political Theory
2b. Political Philosophy
2c. Comparative/World Politics
2d. International Relations
2e. Public Administration
2f. American Politics
3. Utilize the basic concepts and vocabulary employed in the field of Political Science. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes)
4. Research, analyze, and discuss historical and current trends in the study of politics and governance including the evolution of Political Science and approaches to the study of politics over time. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes, individual research)
5. Research the connections between Political Science and other social science disciplines, and those fields in which one or more disciplines generate an interdisciplinary sub-discipline such as Political Psychology or International Political Economy. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes)
6. Analyze the theory and application of the world?s major political theories, political philosophies, and resulting political systems and institutions, both current and historical.
7. Examine historical and contemporary case studies and make conclusions concerning the success or failure of various political theories and their applications.
8. Evaluate the role of political culture and its impact on the application of political theory. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes)
9. Perform independent research on a case study of the student?s choice (with instructor guidance), focusing on a major political movement, its underlying theory and resulting institutions and processes, as embodied in a specific state (country) in a particular historical era.
1. Students will employ current technology as necessary part of their research.
2. Students will present and discuss their research to other students via both formal presentations and informal discussions.