Course Objectives: To Encourage Students To Think About Them

Course Objectives1 To Encourage Students To Think About The Wor

To summarize the core course objectives, students will develop an understanding of the structure and functions of the U.S. government, critically analyze political processes, and evaluate the relationships between federal and state systems, particularly focusing on California. The course emphasizes active participation through discussion boards, comprehension of course readings, and successful completion of exams and assignments.

The objectives include fostering awareness of the pervasiveness of politics in everyday life, empowering students with knowledge to make informed decisions, encouraging political participation, and cultivating critical thinking about information from various sources, including government and media. By the end of the semester, students will be able to describe the U.S. government structure, evaluate key forces shaping public policy, explain the evolution of the U.S. Constitution, and analyze the dynamics of federalism, especially regarding California.

This course utilizes Harrison and Harris, American Democracy Now, Third Edition (Custom Version), which requires a specific access code available with the textbook. All coursework, such as exams, discussion participation, weekly homework, and readings, contributes to a total of 500 points. The grading scale is strict, with no grade adjustments based on proximity to the next grade level.

Participation in online discussions is mandatory, requiring students to respond to initial prompts and reply to peers on separate days each week. Weekly assignments include multiple-choice questions, videos, and other interactive activities, all due Sundays at 11:59 pm. Exams are scheduled throughout the semester, and the final comprehensive exam is given during finals week.

Extra credit opportunities include a course evaluation completed during finals week. Students are responsible for managing their enrollment status, including dropping the course if they choose and notifying the instructor. The course emphasizes respectful online conduct and adherence to academic integrity policies, including sanctions for cheating or plagiarism. Accommodation requests for disabilities should be made early, and students are encouraged to utilize campus support services as needed.

Paper For Above instruction

Understanding the fundamental objectives of the course, this paper explores the importance of political literacy in contemporary society, examines the structure of the U.S. government, and underscores the significance of active civic participation. It emphasizes the educational goal of enabling students to critically evaluate political information and participate meaningfully in democratic processes.

At the heart of this course is the goal to foster an informed citizenry capable of engaging with key political theories, institutions, and processes. By dissecting principles like federalism and constitutional evolution, students are equipped to recognize the complex interplay between local and national governance, particularly the dynamics between California and the federal system. Such understanding promotes a nuanced perspective necessary for active participation and responsible citizenship.

Furthermore, the curriculum underscores the importance of fostering analytical skills to scrutinize information from government and media sources critically. This skill is vital in an era of widespread misinformation and fast-changing political landscapes. Equipping students with these competencies ensures they can navigate and interpret political narratives effectively, fostering informed decision-making both in voting and broader civic life.

Participation through discussion boards encourages the development of communication skills and the ability to consider multiple viewpoints. The integration of online coursework, including exams and weekly homework, reinforces an active learning approach that promotes retention and understanding of core concepts. The emphasis on timely submissions and strict adherence to deadlines prepares students for professional and civic responsibilities.

In sum, this course aims to cultivate a politically literate and engaged student body, capable of critical self-assessment and active participation in democratic processes. Such education is essential for maintaining the health of the American political system by nurturing informed voters and responsible citizens.

References

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