Incorporating Writing into the Political Science Classroom: Using Writing Across the Curriculum Principles to Improve Student Learning Outcomes

Abstract

With the restrictions of time in the classroom devoted to teaching, learning, and questions, professors often feel a tension to include writing as a part of their in-class work. The resistance to including writing in the classroom is felt by professors at all levels and years of experience. However, what we overlook as professors is how writing can help our students improve their critical thinking skills. This paper addresses many different ways that professors can include writing in the classroom and, in the end, receive better writing from their students on high stakes assignments. Common resistances are addressed as well as strategies for dealing with the balance of providing knowledge and including writing initiatives in the political science classes of all sizes and levels.