Chabot College
Fall 2002
Replaced Fall 2010
Course Outline for Political Science 40
CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN AMERICAN POLITICS
Catalog Description:
40 - Contemporary Issues in American Politics
3 units
An introduction to current political issues; their historical, and economic causes and the
public policies which have been advanced to solve these issues. Emphasis on decisionmaking process of government and voluntary organizations. 3 hours.
[Typical contact hours: 52.5]
Prerequisite Skills:
None.
Expected Outcomes for Students:
Upon the completion of the course the student should be able to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
analyze the causes of public problems;
evaluate the effects of public problems;
develop public policy to resolve public problems;
present public policy solutions to public problems.;
evaluate the effectiveness of public policy programs.
Course Content:
1.
2.
Evaluative tools and models of public policy
Proposed solutions to public policy issues:
a.
Civil rights policy
b.
Poverty and welfare policy
c.
Criminal justice policy
d.
Health policy
e.
Education policy
f.
Defense policy
Methods of Presentation:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Lecture - discussion
Role - playing
Student reports
Audio-visual material
Chabot College
Course Outline for Political Science 40
Fall 2002
Page 2
Assignments and Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:
1.
Typical assignments:
a.
series of essays which develop a thesis through the use of clear argument,
sound logic and document evidence.
b.
In-class, small group analysis of contemporary events utilizing methods of
analysis developed in the course and presented in written and oral form to
the class.
2.
Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:
a.
midterm exams and quizzes
b.
class participation in discussions projects
c.
student reports
d.
final examination
Textbook(s) (Typical):
Public Policy, Dye, Prentice-Hall Publishing Co., 2001, or latest edition
The Public Agenda, Brewster, St. Martins Press Publishing Co., 2001, or latest edition
American Public Policy. Cochran, St. Martins Press, 2001, or latest edition
Special Student Materials:
None.
f A:\Word\POLSCI.40.doc
Revised: 1-31-2002