Module 3 (Unit 3) Objectives
After you have completed this module, you will be able to:
- Analyze the nature, influences, consequences, and measurement of public opinion.
- Identify and evaluate the ways in which citizens participate in political life.
- Describe the cleavages in the American political landscape and their impact.
- Analyze the changes in the American population and their impact.
- Evaluate factors that influence citizens to differ from one another in terms of political beliefs and behaviors.
- Evaluate the role of the mass media in the political system.
- Explain the functions and structures of the media in the political system.
- Analyze the impact of the media on public opinion.
- Describe the functions and organization of political parties.
- Analyze the cause and effects of the American two party system.
- Explain the role and impact of third parties in the political process.
- Analyze the implications of the two-party system.
- Compare and contrast the ideological and demographic differences between the two major parties.
- Explain current election process and voter participation.
- Analyze the impact of the current nomination process.
- Evaluate the workings and implications of the Electoral College.
- Evaluate the current laws governing campaign financing and proposed changes.
- Explain the operation and evaluate the role of elections in American politics.
- Analyze the causes and effects of the growth of interest groups and PACs in the American political system.
- Compare the types of Interest groups, their resources and strategies.
- Evaluate the effectiveness and constitutional implications of attempts to regulate interest groups and PACs.