SYLLABUS

1. the dynamics of political change as reflected in the electoral system;
2. the factors which explain electoral choice; and
3. the tools and methods by which political scientists study these phenomena empirically.

Requirements. The semester grade will be based on two examinations (i.e,, one midterm and a final), and five lab assignments. Examinations will be comprehensive and essay. Pleased be advised that it is my policy NOT to arrange make-up exams; two mid-terms will be given during the semester; the lowest midterm score will be dropped. You may not drop the final exam for the course. Each exam will constitute 20% of the semester grade.

Lab assignments are due on the date indicated in the syllabus. You will be allowed a week grace period to complete each assignment. After the grace period has expired, late assignments will be penalized. Each lab assignment will be worth a total of 30 points. The lab assignments collectively will constitute 50% of the semester grade. Lab assignments will be graded on three criteria:

1. data analysis (10 points);
2. data is presentation (10 points); and
3. investment in the assignment (10 points).

Office Hours. The instructor will be available for consultation in SPA 336 from 1:00 to 2:00 Tuesday and Thursday, and from 5:30 to 6:30 on Monday and Wednesday evenings. The telephone number for my office is (562) 985-4708. My e-mail address is:

Reading Assignments. Each student will need to purchase:

Charles Prysby and Carmine Scavo, VOTING BEHAVIOR IN THE 1996 ELECTION (Washington, D.C.: American Political Science Association, 1997)

Other assigned readings are available on the Web Page for this course. Those readings may be found at the following URL:

Please also purchase three (3) high density 3 1/2 inch computer disks formated for PC (also available at the bookstore).