Public administration has a long tradition of close connections to the field of political science. As the field of public administration evolved from a basic politics administration dichotomy, it became evident that the distinction between politics and administration was nebulous at best. As such, public affairs students need exposure to, and…

This article attempts to demonstrate the applicability of a computer-assisted instruction supported with simulated data in teaching abstract statistical concepts to political science and public affairs students in an introductory research methods course. The software is called the Elaboration Model Computer Exercise (EMCE) in that it takes a great…

Recommends the policy analysis term paper, involving the use of newspaper and newsmagazine sources to evaluate possible solutions to public policy problems, as an alternative to the political science research term paper in introductory courses. Looks at the results of this approach in terms of student learning. (AYC)

Students can develop valuable research skills and learn about our political process by obtaining campaign finance reports filed by all candidates in federal elections. Other statistics and information available from the Federal Election Commission are also valuable learning tools. (Author/GC)

Presents results of survey of high school seniors taken in 1968 (N=825), 1972 (N=119), and 1984 (N=200). The survey consisted of 13 widely accepted attitudinal items and 16 demographic variables designed to measure degree of political cynicism and attitudes toward democracy. Concludes that 1984 results show a loss of innocence, increasing…

Viewing all students as potential voters, the author asserts the need for including political education in school curricula and suggests the viability, as well as form, of its inclusion. (JH)

Describes the widely varied methods employed by the individual states in the U.S. for selecting national convention delegates. Reports that most states use one of three major systems: the binding candidate preference primary, the participatory caucus/convention, or direct election. Discusses the shortcomings and pitfalls of each. (NL)

Advocates a schoolwide, mock nominating convention as an effective learning experience for high school students, particularly in election years. Presents step-by-step plans for organizing and carrying out such a convention. (SR)

A discussion of the 1988 conference of the International Political Science Association (IPSA) along with a report on the meaning of the IPSA for the Dutch National Institute for Curriculum Development (SLO) are presented in this document. Part 1 includes: general information on the aims, structure, and activities of the IPSA; a description of the…

Following a brief history of the development of simulation as a research and teaching tool in the field of international politics, three specific simulations are examined in more depth. (1) Conflict in the Middle East: A Public Policy Simulation is intended to acquaint students with the political situation in that area and to help them understand…

Outlines a course on the Canadian governmental system. The four lessons stress the inquiry process and suggest activities which encourage the student to take an active role in experiencing a "human" dimension of the Canadian political process. (Author/DB)

This article presents a way of looking at decision making that can facilitate students' achievement of citizenship skills that may enable them to be more effective participants during and between elections. (AV)

Provides a four-part framework for thinking about the content of global education. The elements are the study of: (1) diverse human values; (2) global economic, political, ecological, and technological systems; (3) global problems and issues; and (4) the history of contact and interdependence among peoples, cultures, and nations. (JDH)

Provides a comprehensive listing of print and audio-visual resources for developing a global studies program. Included are elementary and secondary instructional units, activities, maps, computer software, multimedia packages, and curriculum guides. (JDH)