FACULTY EXPECTATIONS IN ___POLITICAL SCIENCE _________

RE. PORTFOLIO ESSAYS

• The general philosophy of above-named discipline regarding Assessment of Prior Experiential Learning essays may be summarized as follows:

Students should be able to demonstrate that they have knowledge, skills and performance abilities equal to specific discipline of Political Science in the Politics/Philosophy/Economics (PPE) program at EOU. With regard to the sub-field of Political Science that the student is submitting a portfolio essay in, a student should be able to

-Acknowledge the primary concepts and theories relevant to the field of study.

-Understand the history & structure of the governmental and non-governmental organizations related to the field.

-Analyze & discuss a range of contemporary issues confronting the field of study.

-Interpret & critically evaluate a wide range of political information sources pertaining to the portfolio.

-Demonstrate critical thinking skills by synthesizing diverse materials into a coherent essay.

• Describe the nature of any dialogue expected between faculty in above-name discipline and students preparing portfolio essays in the discipline.

The student is expected to consult with the faculty member prior to preparation of the portfolio essay to ascertain the amount of written work and experience required for portfolio credit. The standard, irrespective of the amount of experience required, is 15-20 pages for one academic credit.

• Describe the nature of any specific requirements the above-name discipline will have regarding contents of the portfolio materials i.e., documentation, essay, bibliography were applicable, etc.

In addition to following the basic guidelines of portfolio preparation, the student is required to document performance of activity underlying the portfolio. Additionally, the student should be advised of the standards for credit hours. Generally speaking, a one-credit portfolio essay necessitates approximately 50 hours of experience and a 15-20 page paper. Hence, a five-credit portfolio essay requires approximately 250+ hours of experience and a 75-100 page paper.

• Describe issues regarding the general turnaround time for review of portfolio materials in the above-named discipline.

The current practice of allowing three weeks turnaround time is generally appropriate. However, portfolio essays submitted near the end of academic quarters may necessitate a longer turn around time.

• Provide any additional information that will help portfolio students in developing materials for faculty review in the above-named discipline.

-Students should specify their credit request.

-Students should submit documentation of experience during the application process.

-There are specific stylistic requirements for the essay that will be conferred to students upon application.

-The essay must incorporate a theoretical construct relevant to the topic being discussed in the essay.

Jeff Dense                         

Faculty Submitting Information                                                        April 2007