Political Science 325

POSC 325: Elections and Voting Behavior (AG)

Prerequisites: POSC 120

Credit Hours: (3)

This course examines the determinants and processes of voting behavior, emphasizing the role of political socialization, public opinion, and voter turnout in elections. The course also examines the rules and processes of American elections as well as the effect of campaigns on voting behavior.

Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course.

Detailed Description of Course

POSC 325 will build upon the political behavior and electoral focus of the foundation American government course, Introduction to American Government (POSC 120). This new course will give students the opportunity to learn more about the determinants and processes of elections and voting behavior and to be exposed to recent research in this area. The course will concentrate on the role of political socialization, public opinion, and voter turnout in elections.

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

POSC 325 will introduce students to the rules and processes of American elections, as well as the effect of campaigns on voting behavior. A significant part of the course will be focused on independent research and writing, which includes several essay and research paper-based assignments in for course. The assignmnts will require students to practice creative inquiry and critical thinking - competencies that would prepare students to become active and informed citizens.

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Students will acquire foundational knowledge in political science relating to elections and voting behavior. They will be able to apply political science concepts and multi-disciplinary frameworks, theories, and tools to questions of electoral behavior and institutions. Participants will strengthen their research abilities as well as oral and written communication skills.

Assessment Measures

Student performance may be evaluated on the basis of student written essays, meant to gauge their understanding of the American electoral process. This course will likely incorporate a research paper component into the syllabus during semesters when there is an impending election. For this assignment, students will be required to track an election campaign throughout the semester, evaluating the quality of its overall strength and performance.

Other Course Information

Students must have taken POSC 120 (Introduction to American Government) as a prerequisite.

Review and Approval

April 15, 2016

March 01, 2021