Teaching
My teaching emphasizes discussion, debate, applied research, and the development of critical thinking skills. Below are courses I have taught in American politics, political communication, and political methodology.
Introduction to American Politics
A broad introduction to American politics, with an emphasis on how political institutions, elections, public opinion, interest groups, and the media influence democratic representation and government decision-making.
The Presidency
An examination of the constitutional foundations, institutional development, and contemporary politics of the American presidency. The course considers presidential elections, executive power, relations with Congress, public leadership, and presidential decision-making.
Political Communication
An exploration of how citizens, candidates, journalists, and political institutions communicate. Topics include news production, media effects, campaign messaging, political advertising, framing, misinformation, and the changing political media environment.
American Political Institutions
A study of the institutions that structure American government, including Congress, the presidency, the courts, the bureaucracy, and federalism. The course examines how institutional rules influence political conflict, policymaking, and democratic accountability.
American National Government
An introduction to the institutions, processes, and political behavior that define the American political system. Topics include the Constitution, Congress, the presidency, the judiciary, federalism, elections, political parties, public opinion, and the media.
Research Methods
An introduction to the logic and practice of political science research. Students learn how to develop research questions, evaluate evidence, design studies, interpret quantitative and qualitative analyses, and communicate empirical findings.
Campaigns and Elections
An examination of American electoral politics, including campaign strategy, candidate selection, political parties, voter behavior, polling, political advertising, media coverage, campaign finance, and election administration.