POL 2703: Special Topics - Campaigns and Elections
Lowe Finney
Fall 2007
Tuesday nights, 6PM
Overview: The course will examine the American phenomena of campaigning and political elections, including fundraising, “grass roots” efforts, paid advertising, volunteer support, campaign ethics, campaign strategies, and overall candidate messaging. Use of the text is but one small part of the course as you will be required to examine “real-life” scenarios and comment upon them.
Text: Thurber, Campaigns & Elections — American Style, 2004
Homework, Quizzes, and Projects: Class participation is essential and will be expected. You will occasionally be assigned to brief the class on current topics/events in politics. With an election approaching, the news is flush with information and criticism of candidates, their lives, and their policies. I’m not looking for a treatise. But one page of information and your willingness to talk with the class aobut the topic isn’t asking too much. Quizzes will be announced ahead of time, and any projects may involve your ability to work with others and prepare a multi-media presentation.
Grading Scale:
101+ A+
90-100 A
80-89 B
70-79 C
65-69 D
Below 65 F
Attendance—10% Projects—15% Homework & Quizzes—20%
Mid-Term Ex.—25% Final Ex.—30%
Attendance: Class attendance is very important. The student may miss up to two class meetings without penalty. If a student misses more than three class meetings, he or she will not be permitted to sit for the final examination. School related events do not count against the two permitted absences. However, students are required to give me advance notice of any school related travel or events that will require missed class time.
The Syllabus: This syllabus is intended to be an outline. It is not be construed as a contract, and it may be amended during the semester as I deem appropriate and at my sole discretion.
Any
student eligible for and requesting academic accommodations
due to a disability is requested to provide a letter of accommodation
within the first two weeks of the semester.
Finally, academic dishonesty will not be tolerated in any form. Any one suspected of cheating will be referred to the Academic Dean’s office and will be prohibited from completing the course until the Dean’s office instructs.
I am always willing to discuss the material with you. To that end, call or email me at any time.
Lowe Finney
664 1340—Work
695 1608—Cell
988 3991—Home
lowefinney@yahoo.com