This course will introduce the student to the major theoretical and substantive topics examined by analysts of state and local political systems in the United States.
Special Features:
(1) Members of the class will conduct individual research projects using primary data sources. Each student will select a local property (either residential or commercial) and, using the resources of the County Court House, develop a history of the property.
(2) The SimCity computer simulation will also be used. Each student will create a simulated city in which certain growth targets are met.
(3) The Camelot city government simulation, an in-class, non-computer role-playing simulation, will be used as well.

Required Readings:
Harrigan, J. Politics and Policy in States and Communities
Woodworth and Gump, Camelot

Grading:
Your final grade will be computed on the following basis:

Best Test 40%
Poorest Test 25%
SimCity 10%
Camelot 10%
Research Paper 10%
Discretionary 5%

Note: All assignments and exercises must be satisfactorily completed to pass the course.

COURSE SCHEDULE

Jan 18 - 23 Introduction to Course; Politics and Political Legitimacy

Jan 24 - 30 Political Concepts

Jan 31 - Feb 6 Political Concepts; SimCity introduction

Feb 7 - 13 Introduction to State and Local Government; Review

Feb 14 - 20 Test I

Feb 21 - 27 SimCity

Feb 28 - Mar 6 Research Project

Mar 15 - 20 Camelot I

Mar 21 - 27 Camelot II

Mar 28 - Apr 3 Camelot III and Review

Apr 4 - 10 Test II

Apr 11 - 17 SimCity Lab

Apr 18 - 24 Camelot IV

Apr 25 - May 1 Camelot V

May 2 - 6 Review and Test III

For more information about this course, call Dr. Farley at (717) 893-2160 or send e-mail to lfarley@eagle.lhup.edu