POLS1304

Meets MN Transfer Goals 5 & 9 - History/Social, Behavioral Sciences and Ethical/Civic Responsibility. Introduction to American Politics is an introductory course on political ideologies, (democracy, capitalism, etc.), political institutions, (federal, state, and local governmental systems), and processes, (how a bill becomes a law, etc.). Team learning, community involvement and off-campus activities such as city council meetings are used as teaching tools.Student Learning Outcomes

• understand the major political institutions in the United States, the state and locally
• understand how the political system works and more importantly, what part they can play in the system
• understand how the scientific method applies to political behavior, with the limitations and potential it has to help understand politics
• apply critical thinking skills to the political process and to political behavior