HSC 025 - Civics and Government

Credits: 3-5
Introduces students to the American political system; its core values and principles as set forth in foundational documents, as well as its origins, institutions and operations. Includes brief treatments of political parties, historic development of American politics, civil liberties, plus taxes and budgets. Introduces students to the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and of democratic civic involvement.

Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 081 and READ 094; or eligible for ENGL 097.

Course Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this class will be able to:

Understand and be able to explain the core values and principles of U.S. democracy as set forth in foundational documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution; analyze the purposes and organization of governments and laws; understand the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and the principles of democratic civic involvement, and; understand basic economic concepts and analyze the effect of economic systems on individuals, groups, and society.
Civics and Government addresses the examining diversity outcome, which encompasses the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary for students to understand power; to function responsibly in a diverse, global society; and to gain a critical awareness of the social construction of race, ethnicity, gender, class, sexual orientation, disability, culture, religion, and age ’ in local, national and global contexts.
Recognize one’s social position and geopolitical location, along with the consequences of both;
Examine economic, political, and social inequalities and their effects on communities;
Analyze the multiple histories, cultures, perspectives, contributions and/or struggles of various peoples, and;
Collaborate and interact effectively, equitably and respectfully in diverse groups within the classroom or campus-related workplaces and practice areas.

Program Outcomes

Demonstrate college-ready level reading, writing, digital literacy, and communication skills.
Demonstrate the skills necessary for successful transition to college credit courses and/or living wage employment.

College-wide Outcomes

Responsibility - Responsibility encompasses those behaviors and dispositions necessary for students to be effective members of a community. This outcome is designed to help students recognize the value of a commitment to those responsibilities which will enable them to work successfully individually and with others.