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
June 29 Introduction to Course
June 30 Politics and Political Legitimacy
July 1 Political Concepts
July 2 Political Concepts
July 3 Holiday
July 6 Political Concepts
July 7 SimCity introduction
July 8 SimCity
July 9 Research Project (Court House)
July 10 Research Project (Court House)
July 13 Structures of Local Government
July 14 Review
July 15 Test I
July 16 City Charters
July 17 Camelot briefing
July 20 Camelot I
July 21 Camelot II
July 22 Camelot III
July 23 Camelot IV
July 24 Camelot V
July 27 Comparative State Politics
July 28 Careers
July 29 Project Reports
July 30 Review
July 31 Test II