POLS 208 US Campaigns and Elections (5 credits)
Distribution Area Fulfilled Social Sciences; General Transfer Elective
Course Description
This course will explore various features of political campaigns and elections in America. Topics include: voter behavior, public opinion, the role of money, media and interest groups in campaigns, and the relationship of elections to policy outcomes.
Course Content
A. American political campaigns
B. Voter behavior and public opinion
C. Election Rules
D. History of elections
E. The role of parties
F. Shaping policy outcomes
G. Candidates and party policies
H. Democratic theory
I. Effective participation
Student Outcomes
1. Analyze strategies and features of American political campaigns, including money, media and interest groups.
2. Evaluate voter behavior and public opinion.
3. Identify rules governing American elections- including Constitution, state and federal law and party policies.
4. Explain the different perspectives of the history of elections in the United States.
5. Recognize and evaluate the role of parties in shaping opinion and mobilizing voters.
6. Recognize and evaluate the role of elections in shaping policy outcomes and government behavior.
7. Evaluate relationship of American elections to standards of democratic governance.
8. Identify the philosophy and policies of major candidates and parties.
9. Articulate their own views in relation to public opinion and party platforms.
10. Recognize opportunities to participate in elections and help shape electoral results.
Degree Outcomes
Social Sciences: Graduates analyze and interpret social phenomenon using social science theories and methods.
Critical, Creative, and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.
Lecture Contact Hours 50
Lab Contact Hours 0
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 50
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