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Frederick W. Mayer,
Dr. Bruce W Jentleson,
Deondra Rose, PhD,
Kenneth Rogerson,
Nicholas Carnes,
Philip Bennett,
Tana Johnson,
and
Bill Adair
So how does the American political system work? Who are some of the key actors? What are key concepts for a student trying to understand what’s going on? How can I as a citizen influence politics?
Read more
So how does the American political system work? Who are some of the key actors? What are key concepts for a student trying to understand what’s going on? How can I as a citizen influence politics?
Read more
So how does the American political system work? Who are some of the key actors? What are key concepts for a student trying to understand what’s going on? How can I as a citizen influence politics?
Civic Engagement in American Democracy takes on these and other key questions. We’re Dr. Nicholas Carnes and Dr. Bruce Jentleson, the principal course instructors. Along with our Duke faculty colleagues who also contributed modules, we’ve designed the course to provide a strong foundational introduction to US politics.
If you’re new to this material, proceed through the modules one by one and build up your knowledge of politics and government. If some of the material is familiar, go ahead and set your own pace. Either way we hope Civic Engagement in American Democracy helps you be an effective student in more advanced politics courses and/or an engaged citizen in 21st century America.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/80oada/civic
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What's inside
Syllabus
Course Overview and Introduction
Who are the key players?
This week we'll learn who is who in American Democracy.
Read more
Syllabus
Course Overview and Introduction
Who are the key players?
This week we'll learn who is who in American Democracy.
Read more
How do the players fit together?
This week we'll learn how American Democracy is structured and how forces—internal and external—affect it.
How do citizens influence politics?
This week we'll learn how American citizens can affect their political system.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Comprehensive introduction to US politics, giving learners a strong foundation in the subject
Covers key concepts, actors, and processes in American democracy, suitable for both beginners and learners with some prior knowledge
Taught by experienced Duke University faculty, ensuring the credibility and quality of the content
Emphasizes civic engagement, guiding learners on how to actively participate in American democracy
Modular format allows learners to customize their learning pace and focus on specific areas of interest
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Reviews summary
Valuable overview of civic engagement
Learners say this course provides a valuable overview of the basics of American democracy, civic engagement, and the role of individuals. It is described as engaging and easy to understand with clear, concise videos and progress checks. While some students wished for more in-depth discussions on certain topics, they nevertheless recommend this course to anyone seeking a basic understanding of how American democracy works.
Course is designed for students new to American civics and democracy.
"Good basic overview of American democracy."
"This is an informative course that is suitable for those who would like to learn about American politics."
"I would recommend this course to anyone new to, or seeking a refresher on the fundamentals of U.S. civics and how our government works."
Students highly recommend this course.
"learnt a lot I did not know"
"Very engaging and intriguing course!"
"Complete and engaging! I understand our political system much better now."
"Really good course! Short videos but with lots of content, making it easy and plaseant to watch."
Some learners wished for more in-depth discussions on particular topics.
"The questioning of established practices and diversity of standpoints does is only present to a very limited extent."
"For example, the idea of objective news was introduced without mentioning that a huge debate exists on whether objective news is possible as everything is written by humans."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Civic Engagement in American Democracy with these
activities:
Create a Digital Course Repository
Show steps
Organize and store course materials in a central location for easy access and future reference
Show steps
-
Gather all relevant course materials
-
Digitize and organize materials using a preferred platform
-
Create a system for categorizing and labeling materials
-
Make the repository accessible to yourself and others
-
Regularly update and maintain the repository
Review Key Concepts
Show steps
Review the main concepts of American democracy and politics to ensure comprehension
Show steps
-
Recall the structure of American democracy
-
Identify the different branches and levels of government
-
Summarize the roles and responsibilities of different political actors
Attend Political Workshops
Show steps
Engage in interactive workshops led by experts to enhance your knowledge and skills related to American politics
Show steps
-
Research and identify relevant political workshops
-
Register and participate in the workshops
-
Take notes and actively engage in discussions
-
Connect with other attendees and experts
-
Apply the insights gained to your learning
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Facilitate learning by collaborating with peers, exchanging perspectives, and holding each other accountable
Show steps
-
Identify potential study partners
-
Set up regular meeting times
-
Develop a study plan
-
Take turns leading discussions
-
Review notes and share insights
Practice Analyzing Political Issues
Show steps
Enhance analytical skills by examining real-world political issues from diverse perspectives
Show steps
-
Identify topical political articles or news segments
-
Read or watch and take notes on the content
-
Discuss with others to gather different perspectives
-
Analyze the issue and formulate an informed opinion
Create a Political Simulation
Show steps
Deepen understanding by designing and carrying out a simulation of a political process
Show steps
-
Choose a specific political scenario
-
Define roles and responsibilities for participants
-
Set up rules and procedures
-
Run the simulation
-
Debrief and analyze the outcomes
Volunteer as a Course Mentor
Show steps
Provide support and guidance to fellow students, reinforcing your own understanding while fostering a positive learning environment
Show steps
-
Express interest in mentoring
-
Connect with students seeking guidance
-
Offer support and guidance on course materials and concepts
-
Encourage active participation and answer questions
-
Share your own insights and experiences
Create a Digital Course Repository
Show steps
Organize and store course materials in a central location for easy access and future reference
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all relevant course materials
- Digitize and organize materials using a preferred platform
- Create a system for categorizing and labeling materials
- Make the repository accessible to yourself and others
- Regularly update and maintain the repository
Review Key Concepts
Show steps
Review the main concepts of American democracy and politics to ensure comprehension
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Recall the structure of American democracy
- Identify the different branches and levels of government
- Summarize the roles and responsibilities of different political actors
Attend Political Workshops
Show steps
Engage in interactive workshops led by experts to enhance your knowledge and skills related to American politics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify relevant political workshops
- Register and participate in the workshops
- Take notes and actively engage in discussions
- Connect with other attendees and experts
- Apply the insights gained to your learning
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Facilitate learning by collaborating with peers, exchanging perspectives, and holding each other accountable
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify potential study partners
- Set up regular meeting times
- Develop a study plan
- Take turns leading discussions
- Review notes and share insights
Practice Analyzing Political Issues
Show steps
Enhance analytical skills by examining real-world political issues from diverse perspectives
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify topical political articles or news segments
- Read or watch and take notes on the content
- Discuss with others to gather different perspectives
- Analyze the issue and formulate an informed opinion
Create a Political Simulation
Show steps
Deepen understanding by designing and carrying out a simulation of a political process
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific political scenario
- Define roles and responsibilities for participants
- Set up rules and procedures
- Run the simulation
- Debrief and analyze the outcomes
Volunteer as a Course Mentor
Show steps
Provide support and guidance to fellow students, reinforcing your own understanding while fostering a positive learning environment
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Express interest in mentoring
- Connect with students seeking guidance
- Offer support and guidance on course materials and concepts
- Encourage active participation and answer questions
- Share your own insights and experiences
Career center
Learners who complete Civic Engagement in American Democracy will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
In order to understand the political landscape and analyze political trends, Political Scientists need a strong foundation in American democracy. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will help you understand everything from the institutions of government to the political process, and could be the first step toward a career as a Political Scientist.
Legislator
Legislator
Legislators make laws and policies that affect the lives of all Americans, and need to have a strong understanding of the political process. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will help you learn the key concepts you need to know about American democracy, and can help you pursue a career as a Legislator.
Political Consultant
Political Consultant
Political Consultants advise candidates and political organizations on how to win elections, and need to have a deep understanding of the political process. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will help you learn the key concepts you need to know about American democracy, and can help you pursue a career as a Political Consultant.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues, and need to have a strong understanding of politics and government. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will give you the necessary foundation in those subjects, and can help you pursue a career as a Policy Analyst.
Lobbyist
Lobbyist
Lobbyists represent the interests of organizations before government officials, and need to have a deep understanding of the political process. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will teach you the key concepts you need to know about American democracy, and can help you build a career as a Lobbyist.
Public Administrator
Public Administrator
Public Administrators oversee the operations of government agencies, and need to have a strong understanding of politics and public policy. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will give you the necessary foundation in those subject areas, and can help you pursue a career as a Public Administrator.
Campaign Manager
Campaign Manager
Campaign Managers plan and execute political campaigns, and need to have a deep understanding of the political process. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will help you learn the key concepts you need to know about American democracy, and can be a helpful preparation for a career as a Campaign Manager.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists need to have a solid understanding of politics at the local, state, and national levels, because they report on it every day. American Democracy can help you develop the knowledge you need to be familiar with the key players and issues, and help you build a career in journalism.
Government Relations Specialist
Government Relations Specialist
Government Relations Specialists work to build relationships between organizations and government officials, and need to have a strong understanding of politics and public policy. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will give you the foundation you need in those subjects, and can help you pursue a career as a Government Relations Specialist.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations, and often need to have a strong understanding of politics and public policy. Civic Engagement in American Democracy can help you build the foundation you need in those areas, and can help you pursue a career as a Nonprofit Manager.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists work to manage the public image of organizations, and often need to have a strong understanding of politics and public policy. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will give you the necessary foundation in those subjects, and can help you pursue a career as a Public Relations Specialist.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people navigate social and economic challenges, and often need to have a strong understanding of politics and public policy. Civic Engagement in American Democracy can help build the foundation you need in those subject areas, and can help you pursue a career as a Social Worker.
Lawyer
Lawyer
The knowledge of American law and politics that you gain from Civic Engagement in American Democracy can supplement a law degree, helping you build a career as a lawyer. You will learn about the legal system, the political process, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens, which is essential knowledge to have in any legal field.
Educator
Educator
Educators teach students about a variety of subjects, and many need to have a strong understanding of politics and government. Civic Engagement in American Democracy can help you build the foundation you need in those subjects, and can help you pursue a career as an Educator.
Historian
Historian
Historians study and write about the past, and many need to have a strong understanding of politics and government. Civic Engagement in American Democracy will help you build the foundation you need in those areas, and can help you pursue a career as a Historian.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/80oada/civic
Reading list
We've selected 29 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Civic Engagement in American Democracy.
Provides a timely and important analysis of the threats to democracy in the 21st century. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing American democracy today.
This classic work provides a historical overview of American political thought and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the country's political development.
This Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of Robert Moses provides a fascinating look at the rise and fall of one of the most powerful men in American history. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the inner workings of American politics.
This scholarly journal publishes cutting-edge research on American politics, providing a valuable resource for students who want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
This scholarly journal publishes cutting-edge research on political science, including American politics, providing a valuable resource for students who want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
Save
Comprehensive textbook that provides an overview of the American political system, including its institutions, policies, and processes. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the foundations of American democracy.
Classic work on American democracy. It provides a detailed analysis of the American political system, and it offers insights into the unique character of American society.
Save
This classic work by a French aristocrat provides a unique perspective on American democracy. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the American political system.
Save
Provides a broad overview of the American political system, including the institutions, processes, and policies that shape American politics and government.
Offers a shorter, more accessible introduction to American politics, making it suitable for students who are new to the subject.
Save
Provides a wide-ranging and thought-provoking analysis of the future of democracy. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the challenges and opportunities facing democracy in the 21st century.
Save
This newspaper provides daily coverage of American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
This newspaper provides daily coverage of American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
Save
This newspaper provides daily coverage of American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
This collection of essays written by the Founding Fathers provides a historical perspective on the American political system and the principles on which it was founded.
This magazine provides in-depth analysis and commentary on American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to understand the latest developments in the field.
Save
This newspaper provides daily coverage of American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
This popular history of the United States challenges the traditional narrative and gives voice to the marginalized. It good choice for students who want to learn about the darker side of American history.
This magazine provides in-depth analysis and commentary on American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to understand the latest developments in the field.
This magazine provides in-depth analysis and commentary on American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to understand the latest developments in the field.
This magazine provides in-depth analysis and commentary on American politics and current events, making it a valuable resource for students who want to understand the latest developments in the field.
Provides a historical overview of American political thought and the key figures who have shaped it.
Save
The Constitution is the supreme law of the land, and it is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the American political system. It sets out the structure and powers of the federal government, and it protects the rights of citizens.
The Declaration of Independence is the founding document of the United States of America. It sets forth the principles of liberty and equality that are the foundation of American democracy.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of politics. It covers a wide range of topics, from political theory to public policy.
This textbook provides a concise and up-to-date overview of American politics. It covers a wide range of topics, from the electoral process to the role of the media.
This textbook provides a clear and accessible introduction to American government. It covers a wide range of topics, from the structure of the federal government to the role of political parties.
Save
This textbook provides a critical analysis of the American political system. It examines the role of money, power, and inequality in the American political process.
Save
Provides a concise and accessible introduction to American politics. It covers a wide range of topics, from the electoral process to the role of the media.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/80oada/civic
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Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Duke University
Instructors
Frederick W. Mayer
Dr. Bruce W Jentleson
Deondra Rose, PhD
Kenneth Rogerson
Nicholas Carnes
Philip Bennett
Tana Johnson
Bill Adair
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
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Good to know
Comprehensive introduction to US politics, giving learners a strong foundation in the subject
Covers key concepts, actors, and processes in American democracy, suitable for both beginners and learners with some prior knowledge
Taught by experienced Duke University faculty, ensuring the credibility and quality of the content
Emphasizes civic engagement, guiding learners on how to actively participate in American democracy
Modular format allows learners to customize their learning pace and focus on specific areas of interest
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