POLS 101S: Introduction to American Politics (3 credits)

BAL 3068
MWF, 11-11:50 am

This course introduces students to the political processes and institutions of American government and politics in order to help them better understand their political environment.

The course begins by presenting a framework for studying American politics by examining American political culture, constitutional democracy, civil liberties, and gender and minority politics. Next, citizen participation and the electoral process are analyzed. Third, the three branches of the national government are examined with emphasis on the behavior of political actors within the institutional setting. Finally, public opinion and the policy making process are addressed with special attention given to environmental policy and foreign and defense policy.

Course Structure

The format of the class will be lecture with discussion. The instructor encourages students to actively participate in the class. We will periodically view public affairs programs drawn from C-SPAN and other sources. Internet assignments and data analysis will broaden your understanding of American politics and political and social science research.

Course Goals

• Understand the central themes, concepts, institutions and behavior of participants in  American politics and government
• Improve descriptive and analytical skills
• Improve writing skills

Course Requirements

1.  Four quarterly exams consisting of multiple choice, data analysis, and short answer questions.

2.  Two Internet assignments.

3.  Participation in class discussions.

4.  Regular class attendance.

E-mail Communication

Each student is required to use his/her ODU e-mail account when communicating with the instructor.

Course Evaluations

Student course evaluations are conducted on-line.  You will receive reminders from the University encouraging you to complete evaluations of your courses during the last three weeks of the semester.  Student course evaluations are helpful to the instructors and the University so I  encourage you to complete the course evaluations for all of your classes.