Introduction to American Politics · Political Science
In this course, I learned a great deal about the foundations of American democracy and the evolution of federalism within the United States. In addition, I learned key political strategies and tactics that are used and analyzed to champion elections.
Information about collective action and federalist papers were clearly explained.
Different proponents of American politics, like voting behavior and the Federalist papers.
To view politics through a different lens.
i learned a lot about the history/foundations of American politics as well as American politics today
Basics of american politics: history, branches of govt, driving factors and why things are the way they are
I learned about american insitutions and political system.
History of American Politics, how collective action problems play out in American Politics, the basic forces at work in American Politics
This class provides a great introduction to the rest of the American political science education at Columbia. The lecture is well structured and the exams test highly relevant knowledge. I deeply appreciate the clarity Professor McClellan brings to the lecture content. The class emphasizes memorization as opposed to critical thinking and argumentation. Discussion sections are interesting but largely irrelevant to the assessments. It is a requirement so you might have to take it, but don't expect depth or anything largely interesting. It paves the path for future seminars and courses. Assessments: 3 non-cummulative exams. Grading: depends on TA.
I learned much about the American political system.