In the Doane political science department we work in our classes to foster a learning environment that goes beyond developing content knowledge. Specifically, we are interested in pushing students to hone skills in three areas: critical thinking, oral communication, and written argument. These skills are vital to pursuing careers in law, politics, or almost any other professional vocation.
In order to develop these skills, we incorporate many different teaching methods into our classrooms, depending on the needs of the course. We might run short simulations lasting only a class period or less; we might run longer ones, encouraging students to continue their participation even outside the classroom. We also variously employ small- and large-group discussion, formal and informal debate, and group and individual projects to encourage students to analyze the political world around them in a serious way.
Small class sizes and a high likelihood that one of the faculty members from the department will also serve as the student's academic advisor increase the opportunities for individualized instruction and personal interaction; these opportunities for feedback are also crucial to developing the ability to think critically, write proficiently, and speak effectively.