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.

Credits

3

Semester Contact Hours Lecture

45

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

Credit Hours Narrative

3

Semester Contact Hours Lecture

45

Grading Method

Letter grade

Repeatable

N

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