Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
What is a Political Science Teacher, Postsecondary?
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary are educators who specialize in teaching courses related to political science at the college or university level. They focus on various aspects of politics, including governmental systems, political behavior, public policy, international relations, and political theory. These instructors are responsible for developing syllabi, delivering lectures, facilitating discussions, and assessing student performance through assignments, exams, and projects. They play an essential role in fostering critical thinking and understanding of political processes among students, encouraging them to engage with contemporary social issues and appreciate the complexities of governance and civic engagement. Additionally, many Political Science Teachers pursue research in their fields, contributing to academic literature and often guiding students through undergraduate and graduate research projects. They may also participate in academic committees and engage with the broader community through public speaking, advocacy, and policy analysis. Overall, their work not only contributes to the education of future leaders and informed citizens but also advances the field of political science itself.
Tasks
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as classical political thought, international relations, and democracy and citizenship.
- Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
- Plan, evaluate, and revise curricula, course content, course materials, and methods of instruction.
Technology Skills
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Word processing software
- Google Docs
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Word 365
- Computer based training software
- Analytical or scientific software
- Electronic mail software
- Development environment software
Tools Used
- Microphones
- Televisions
- Portable data input terminals
- Multimedia projectors
- Notebook computers
Knowledge
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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History and Archeology
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
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Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Skills
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Instructing
Teaching others how to do something.
Abilities
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Doctoral degree
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Master's degree
Work Activities
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Training and Teaching Others
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
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Thinking Creatively
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Detailed Work Activities
- Evaluate student work.
- Attend training sessions or professional meetings to develop or maintain professional knowledge.
- Stay informed about current developments in field of specialization.
- Teach social science courses at the college level.
- Guide class discussions.
Work Interests
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Social
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$51610.0 - $172910.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.