POLS& 101 Introduction Political Science (5 credits)
Distribution Area Fulfilled Social Sciences; General Transfer Elective
Formerly POLS 201 -CCN
Course Description
A comparative analysis of the various forms of government and politics in the world together with an introduction to the terms and concepts of political science.
Course Content
A. Political Science terms and concepts, including the practice of political civility
B. Political institutions (such as executives, legislatures and judiciary)
C. Constitutions
D. Political Parties and Interest Groups
E. International Systems
F. Scientific study of Political Science
G. Political ideologies
H. Current political and social issues
I. Different types of democracy (i.e. direct v. representative, parliamentary v. presidential)
J. Different types of authoritarian rule (single party, military, personalist dictatorship)
K. Relationships between the political system, the economy and national identity.
Student Outcomes
1. Define and analyze important Political Science terms and concepts necessary for comprehension of subject matter and for further study in the discipline.
2. Articulate one’s own political views in a clear, thoughtful and comprehensive way.
3. Use political science theories to interpret and explain political issues.
4. Identify and analyze the strengths and weakness of political systems in different countries
5. Compare and contrast different theories of order in the international system and apply to current global events.
6. Demonstrate an awareness of how culture shapes political actions and values in different countries.
7. Analyze differences between political ideologies.
8. Evaluate policy options using the concepts of justice and effectiveness.
9. Engage with people holding differing views in a manner that is frank, respectful, and productive.
Degree Outcomes
Social Science: Graduates will use social science research methods and/or theory in order to analyze and interpret social phenomena.
Effective Communication: Graduates will be able to exchange messages in a variety of contexts using multiple methods.
Global Citizenship: Graduates will be able to critically examine the relationship between self, community, and/or environments, and to evaluate and articulate potential impacts of choices, actions, and contributions for the creation of sustainable and equitable systems.
Lecture Contact Hours 50
Lab Contact Hours 0
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 50
Potential Methods
A. Objective tests (multiple choice, true-false and short answer)
B. Research paper
C. Open class discussion
D. Small group discussion
E. Current event summaries
F. Debates or Issue Presentations
G. Student seminars
H. Instructor Evaluation
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