POLS 335: Environmental Politics (3 credits)
Spring 2016
Classroom: BAL XXXX
MWF 11-11:50 am
Professor Glen Sussman
Office: BAL 7034
Office Hours: Mon and Wed 12-1:30 or by appointment
E-mail: gsussman@odu.edu
This course focuses on the political actors and institutions involved in environmental policy making. Although the course stresses the "political" because people make choices within institutional arrangements, it is also necessary to understand the scientific underpinnings of environmental issues as well as proposed technological "solutions" and the different values associated with citizens' orientation toward the environment. For example, public policy concerning the environment often centers on the preservation versus development debate. In this class, students will gain critical thinking and communication skills through class discussions, video programs, and student roundtables.
Course Requirements
- Two exams. The exams will consist of short answer and essay questions. A blue book and pen are required for the exam (penalty: 3 points deducted for each one - - you have been warned!).
- Research Paper. See section on the "Research Paper."
- Student Roundtables. See section on "Student Roundtables."
- Participation in class discussions.
Course Goals
1. Increase the understanding of the concepts, themes, theories and political actors involved in the environmental policymaking process
2. Improve descriptive and analytical skills
3. Improve writing and verbal communication skills
E-mail Communication
Each student is required to use his/her ODU e-mail account when communicating with the instructor.
Course Evaluations
Student course evaluations are conducted on-line. You will receive reminders from the University encouraging you to complete evaluations of your courses during the last three weeks of the semester. Student course evaluations are helpful to the instructors and the University so I highly encourage you to complete the course evaluations for all of your classes.
