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POLISC-150/POLS-C1000 - Introduction to American Government and Politics/American Government and Politics - Steven Reti

Introduction

Dear Students:

At last!  A Political Science course with  a free textbook! In this course, we will examine how American politics works, develop our own opinions and share them with one another, and consider how we can improve the American political system.   

We begin by determining our own ideologies. Are you a communist?  A liberal?  A conservative?  A libertarian?  An independent?   It's okay to not know who you are.  We study how the ideas of the Framers shaped the U.S. Constitutional system.  Next, we examine all the different ways to get involved:  voting, interest groups, political parties, campaigning, etc.   I ask you to relate what we are studying to current political events.  Third, we study how the institutions of government respond to our demands.   What reforms are appropriate to improve our political system?

Look forward to a class that helps you understand your own perspectives better as well as critically understanding government.

Course Description

The objectives of this class are to help you analyze and evaluate American and California politics.   A typical week involves reading from our ZTC American politics textbook and from online resources and texts about California politics and then in class after short lectures, we will be sharing points of view with lots of student led group presentations.   There are many materials on Canvas to help you with the material as well.    There are also three short answer and essay exams that help you synthesize what you have learned in each unit.

Most students excel in this course.  With a bit of reading, active research and participation, I believe that everyone will do well and enjoy the course. 

I have taught the online PS 150 for several years now.  I find most people do quite well in the course.  Additionally, I teach the regular Political Science 150 course at the College of the Canyons.  I always enjoy the discussions that we have together.  

I have a Ph.D. in Political Science from UC Santa Barbara.  I emphasize critical thinking skills and treat the course as an opportunity for you to better know your own political philosophy and points of view, rather than a course just about political facts.

What to Expect in this Course

Expect to engage in a great deal of exploring about how American and California politics works!  Expect to do quite a bit of reading and sharing of research and opinions.

Types of Assessments

Group Presentations, short research paper, short answer and essay exams, written assignments

Textbook Information

Go to the COC Online Education website, under Zero-cost Textbooks, political science for our free books. Here's the link: /academics/onlineeducation/ztc/textbooks.php

Other Relevant Course Information

I look forward to working with you.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at . Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 06/10/2025 Sub#: 1574 Sub ID: 155343