POLI 1111: Canadian Government and Politics
This course is an investigation into the Canadian system of government and the central questions in this country's political life. Students learn about our constitutional arrangements, the structure and processes of our national government and the relationship between politics and society. Students examine the future of democracy as analyzed through the political effects of globalization, concentrated economic power and the ideology of limited government.
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of POLI 1111, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of facts, concepts, and terms relating to Canadian government and politics.
- Write about Canadian government and politics in ways that show broad understanding, analysis, and synthesis of your readings.
- Explain the workings of component parts of the Canadian government and their interrelationship.
- Assess the reality of Canadian democracy.
- Critically reflect on your political ideology and positions.
- Outline and explain your priorities for change in the Canadian political system.
- Explain how the individual can have an impact on power in Canada in ways that "make a difference."
- Demonstrate critical awareness of media treatment of political issues, how it affects issue perception by yourself and others, and how you can glean reliable information from media information.
- Analyze and respond to current events affecting Canadian government and politics.
- Analyze the political effects of globalization, concentrated economic power, and the ideology of limited government.
- Demonstrate a willingness to become an active, responsible, engaged, and effective citizen.
Course topics
Unit 1: The Canadian State and Structures of Governance
Unit 2: Democratic Participation
Unit 3: Politics and Canadian Society
Required text and materials
Students will receive the following:
- Brooks, S. (2020). Canadian democracy (updated 9th ed.). Oxford University Press
Type: Textbook ISBN: 978-0-199-03250-1
Assessments
Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.
In order to successfully complete this course, you must obtain at least 50% on the mandatory final examination and 50% overall. The following chart shows how the final grade is determined for this course.
| Assignment 1: The Canadian State and Structures of Governance | 15% |
| Assignment 2: Democratic Participation | 15% |
| Assignment 3: Politics and Canadian Society | 15% |
| Web Discussions | 15% |
| Final Exam (mandatory) | 40% |
| Total | 100% |
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.
