COURSE OUTLINE
2012
Course Title: Introduction to Political Analysis
Course Code: GOVT1000
Credits: 3
Year: 1
Course Description
GOVT1000 will introduce learners to the basic components of political science and analysis. Topics will include historically based issues such as conceptions of the state, an examination of democracy and its applications in the Caribbean, the machinery of government, potential influences on political systems and more recent concepts such as globalisation. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on establishing links between theories, concepts and real world scenarios in the Caribbean and beyond. On completing the course, it is expected that learners will understand and appreciate the political process and its ultimate effect on the wider society.
Course Objectives
On completion of the course, learners will be able to:
Knowledge
1. Distinguish among varying terms used in relation to governance issues
2. Characterise the components of a government and how they work
3. Discuss the influences on voter participation in the Caribbean
4. Explain the importance of youth as an influential group in the political system
5. Differentiate between the structure and institutions of political science and politics
6. Examine the role of named influences on a political system
7. Discuss the concepts of responsibility and participation within the context of political science
8. Discuss the significance of apathy to voter turnout in the Caribbean
9. Explain how the political process helps to create opportunities
10. Examine the ways in which the political process seeks to distribute resources
11. Assess the importance of the United Nations to the Caribbean region
12. Assess the impact and influence of globalization on the Caribbean
13. Analyse political issues pertinent to the field of development in the Caribbean
Skills
14. Apply knowledge of political analysis to the issue of youth involvement in politics
15. Apply an understanding of the machinery of government to the creation of various agendas, including youth development agendas
16. Apply knowledge of political science and political analysis to issues of political participation
Attitudes
17. Show respect for the differences among systems of government
18. Appreciate the interwoven links between the government and other entities
19. Defend the importance of democracy in the Caribbean
20. Appreciate the fact that politics is relevant to good governance
