Introduction to Canadian Politics

Curriculum Guideline

Effective Date:
Course
Discontinued
No
Course Code
POLI 2202
Descriptive
Introduction to Canadian Politics
Department
Political Science
Faculty
Humanities & Social Sciences
Credits
3.00
Start Date
End Term
Not Specified
PLAR
No
Semester Length
15
Max Class Size
35
Contact Hours
Lecture: 2 hrs. per week/semester Seminar: 2hrs. per week/semester
Method(s) Of Instruction
Lecture
Seminar
Learning Activities

Instructor presentation of the course will involve the use of formal lectures, structured group work, in-class discussion, and student presentations or formal debates. Additional readings may be assigned for each course unit and placed on library reserve or via selected websites. Audio-visual and interactive materials may be used.

Course Description
This course introduces students to Canada’s political traditions and culture, political socialization and participation, class and ethnic politics, the Quebec question, the electoral process, and political parties and advocacy groups in the Canadian governing system. Students are encouraged to enroll in both POLI 1102 (Introduction to Canadian Government) and POLI 2202 (Introduction to Canadian Politics) to enhance their university transfer if majoring in political science.
Course Content

1. Development of the Canadian Nation and State

This section provides an historical approach through which students may view Canada’s political development. Topics here include pre-confederation issues, territorial expansion, population growth, immigration, problems of nation-building, identity, and the development of and challenges to the Canadian state.

 

2. Political Culture and Political Socialization

The concepts of political culture and socialization are defined, and provide a method of examining Canadians and their political system. Significant political cleavages are examined as well as the concept of multiculturalism and the emergence of and challenges faced by Aboriginal peoples. The roles of class, gender, the media, and public opinion polls are explored.

 

3. Political Behavior

Canadian political behavior is examined through the study of the development of Canada’s political system, the role of political parties, the electoral system, and election processes. The role of advocacy groups, social movements, political lobbyists, and think tanks (or policy institutes) are reviewed in the context of the development of public policy.

Learning Outcomes

Upon conclusion of the course, successful students will be able to:

  1. outline various themes in the development of Canadian political traditions and culture;
  2.  describe various institutions and processes such as political parties, interest or advocacy groups, political socialization, electoral systems, and electoral behaviour in the Canadian political system;
  3.  describe the impact of such institutions and processes on the Canadian political system;
  4.  apply understanding of course objectives and content in a formal research essay;
  5.  pursue study in more advanced courses in Canadian government and politics.
Means of Assessment

The course evaluation is based on course objectives and in accordance with the policies of Douglas College and the Department of Political Science. A minimum of 40% of the student’s course grade will be assigned to examinations, a minimum of 30% will be assigned to the various components of a formal research essay, and a maximum of 30% will be based upon components such as quizzes, short essays, participation, and class presentations. Specific evaluation criteria will be provided by the instructor in course outlines.

 

One example of an evaluation system:

Mid-term exam                    25%

Presentation                        10%

Participation                         10%

Research essay                    30%

Final exam                          25%

                                Total:  100%

Textbook Materials

Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Students:

 

Textbooks and readers are selected based on instructor expertise and preference, and in consultation with the Department of Political Science. There are a range of textbooks and readers that can fulfill course objectives.

One example is

Dyck, Rand. Canadian Politics: Critical Approaches. Sixth edition (Toronto: Nelson, 2011).