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

BAL 1012
MWF, 11-11:50 am

Teaching Assistant:  Alexandra "Allie" Rice, BAL 7015,  Office Hours: Wednesdays 1-2 pm (1-2:30 on Monday, February 6 and March 12, the same week as the exam)

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, civil rights, political socialization, and public opinion. Next, the electoral process and the role of the news media are analyzed. Third, the three branches of the national government are examined with emphasis on the behavior of political actors within the institutional setting along with the policy making process with special attention given to environmental policy and foreign and defense policy.

Course Structure

The format of the class will be lecture with discussion. Although this is a large lecture class, the instructor encourages students to actively participate in the class. We will periodically view public affairs programs drawn from C-SPAN and other sources. 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

Course Requirements

1.  Three exams consisting of multiple choice questions and data analysis.

2.  Completion of two Internet assignments involving data analysis.

Course Announcements

• Honor Code and Code of Student Conduct:  Students should be mindful of the Honor Code and the code of student conduct.  See the University catalog, pp. 15-20.
  
• Sexual Harassment:  Sexual harassment will not be tolerated.  Be mindful of the University policy on this matter in the University catalog, pp. 12-13, 21.
  
• Accomodation of Students with Disabilities:  If you need assistance, classroom accomodations will be provided.  Consult with your instructor at the beginning of the semester.  See the University catalog, pp. 7-8.
  
• During class, especially on exam day, smart phones must be turned off.  Violation of this class policy (2 times) will result in a one-half step reduction in your final grade.  You have been warned!

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 online.  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.