POLS 101 American National Government
This basic course in political science introduces the basic concepts and major structural elements of the national government. Many aspects of American government are introduced and discussed in a way that will make the study of government more a part of the students’ world.
General Education Competency
GEM Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
POLS 101American National Government
Please note: This is not a course syllabus. A course syllabus is unique to a particular section of a course by instructor. This curriculum guide provides general information about a course.
I. General Information
Department
Social Science
II. Course Specification
Course Type
General Education
General Education Competency
GEM Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Semester Contact Hours Lecture
45
Grading Method
Letter grade
III. Catalog Course Description
This basic course in political science introduces the basic concepts and major structural elements of the national government. Many aspects of American government are introduced and discussed in a way that will make the study of government more a part of the students’ world.
IV. Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:
- Explain and discuss theories of why humans create governments to overcome collective action problems.
- Explain and discuss the behaviors, beliefs, attitudes, and practices that make a "good citizen" and a "good government".
- Demonstrate comprehension of political theories, institutions and processes.
- Demonstrate the ability to think, integrate, and logically organize, not just memorize, political information.
- Demonstrate the ability to gather knowledge from other disciplines to interpret political situations and put it to use in class work.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply insights from the study of political science to understand local, state, national and international developments.
V. Topical Outline (Course Content)
theoretical underpinnings of why humans create governments and theories of collective action,
founding period, Constitutional framework, federalism
Political behavior and political participation
Political institutions
Citizenship and active engagement
Service learning
VI. Delivery Methodologies
Required Assignments
None
Required Exams
Final Exam
Required Text
Any current, comprehensive intro text (recommend O’Connor)
Dalton: The Good Citizen
Kernell: Principles and Practices of American Politics
Specific Course Activity Assignment or Assessment Requirements
None
Final Exam