We know little about the amount of career preparation offered to students in political science departments. This lack of information is particularly troubling given the state of the current job market and the growth of applied degree programs on university campuses. To address this issue, this article presents the results of a December 2010 survey…

In 2007, University of Oklahoma political science professor Cindy Simon Rosenthal was elected mayor of Norman, Oklahoma, after having served as a member of its city council. Was her activity unique within the political science profession among female political scientists? Her election stimulated the curiosity of some of us in the…

Describes the theory and practice of an experiential civic education initiative, developed by the University of Minnesota, called "Public Achievement" which is based upon the concept of public work (the work of the people). Discusses how "Public Achievement" proves successful for undergraduate coaches in the education of young students. (CMK)

Provides background information on the topic of service learning and discusses the two variations of service learning: (1) providing charitable services; and (2) engaging students in political organizing and social advocacy. Focuses on the Westside Outreach Center and the Urban Citizen Project at the University of Colorado (Denver). (CMK)

Discusses the theoretical context for service learning and the differences between service learning and community service. Examines research on effective service learning that emphasizes connections to political science content, are of a longer duration, and provide opportunities for reflection. States that the research on service learning raises…

Discusses Emory University's (Georgia) Teaching Assistant Training and Teaching Opportunity (TATTO) program, which consists of five components: Graduate School Course, Departmental Course, Teaching Assistantship, Teaching Associateship, and Dean's Teaching Fellowship. Considers the strengths and problems of TATTO. Lists the aspects of TATTO worth…

Presents the preliminary results of projects by two organizations that encourage online discussions about the events of "September 11" as a teachable moment. The projects are "Search for Common Ground" and "Web Lab". States that participants felt more open and honest in the online environment. (CMK)

Contends that undergraduate students should become familiar with the scientific aspects of political science. Addresses seven objectives that are central to a sound education in political science. States that science education is taught in fragments in political science, stating that there is no undergraduate curriculum that meets the seven…

Discusses Citizenship Service Learning (CSL) where students prepare immigrants for legal-status citizenship by providing English as a Second Language discussion groups, citizenship classes preparing immigrants for naturalization, and assistance with citizenship applications. Presents the Bentley Service Learning Center program that adopts the CSL…

Depicts a service learning program that focuses on homelessness and housing in which the students work in an urban neighborhood (Yonkers, New York) for a week as a means for developing the students' understanding of urban politics. Believes that this program may encourage students to integrate community development work into their professional…