In the section reviewed, students read Race, Ethnicity, and Gender in the United States and Women of Color in U.S. Society, and they watch three films: The Color of Fear, Everyday Racism, and African-Americans in Television. Assessment is based on a midterm and a final exam, both entirely consisting of essay questions; several short written assignments, including definitions of key terms from the texts and responses to the films; and a longer "video project" consisting of a 3-4 page paper and an oral presentation. The examination questions require students to be able to understand and use important concepts, to think analytically, and to apply theoretical principles to issues of race and ethnicity. The three goals listed in the syllabus constitute a sound basis for more specific assessable objectives. Particularly because of the emphasis on multiple written and oral assignments and the creative use of multimedia, this is an exemplary general education. This course clearly meets the general requirements for the Social and Behavioral Sciences category and for the Discipline Perspectives Section.

GEOG 100: INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN GEOGRAPHY

This course studies cultural characteristics of geography and integrates a wide range of issues that are appropriate to an introductory course on human geography, including the geographies of politics, religion, ethnicity, cities, agriculture, folk and popular culture, among others. The instructor provided a convincing justification and analysis of the content and methodology of the course in the questionnaire. The breadth of coverage, the application to real life problems, and the analysis required are admirable. The integration of multiple-choice exams, essay questions, and analytical projects are appropriate evaluation and feedback mechanisms that reinforce critical thinking and writing skills.

In the previous review cycle, it was recommended that submission of syllabi and analyses from other faculty in the department would enhance the case for keeping this course in the G.E. package. The department chair explained that due to personnel changes, one professor is available to teach this course on a regular basis, and a qualified part-time instructor can teach the course if necessary. The participation of other department faculty in this course would help to assure its continued viability as a valuable G.E. course.

Finally, the syllabus does contain a statement regarding course objectives, but should be expanded to include a statement about assessable outcomes as well. Based on the submitted materials, this course meets the applicable G.E. criteria for its section.

PSCI 100: INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL SCIENCE

This survey course analyzes human experiences from a broad-based socio-political context, introducing students to elementary concepts of political science and the structure and function of modern governments. Issues of ethnicity and race are addressed as well. The instructor questionnaire provides a substantive justification and analysis of the content and methodology of the course. Exams consist of multiple-choice and essay questions, and a five-page position paper is required. These are appropriate evaluation and feedback mechanisms that reinforce critical thinking and writing skills.