Course Description & Learning Outcomes

Course Description:

This course is an introduction to the principles, organization and politics of the National Government of the United States, including the study of State and local government. In considering government at the State level, specific emphasis is given to the government of the State of California. Throughout the course, current issues in American and State politics are stressed.

 

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Course Student Learning Outcomes:

  1. Define the concepts of federalism and demonstrate an understanding of the essential differences between the State and Federal governments

  2. Identify and explain the effectiveness of checks and balances in the federal government

  3. Identify and explain the ideological differences that separate the two major American parties

  4. Collect and analyze data in order to develop a thesis that addresses a key political science puzzle