Many political science courses include simulations. Simulations attempt to replicate some aspect of the political process in a controlled setting. The exercises allow students the chance to experience some of what they learn from lectures and readings.

Simulations vary widely and the topic of the course determines the type of simulation and the possible roles of the students. Students may play the role of a South African ambassador to the United Nations, a Green party leader in a European parliament, a Congressperson from Texas, or a military strong man in a Latin American country.

American Government

US Congress
(Vinson's PSC-101, PSC-301)

students assume the roles of members of Congress to markup and vote on legislation in committees and to participate in floor debate to try to pass bills and budgets

 

Comparative Politics

SNAFU :: Simulated iNternational Actions at Furman University
(Fraser's PSC-102)

a week in the life of the international system, students identify themselves as a country or non-state entity (Green Peace, terrorist gropus, etc.) and simply interract, occasionally a UN meeting is held mid-simulation

Paladania (Nelsen's PSC-102)

Paladania is a developing nation with a struggling authoritarian government in which students (assigned to the roles of governmental or military figures and interest or opposition groups) must conduct politics, manage resources and weather crises to provide stability for the country

EU Council of Ministers (Nelsen's PSC-221)

students roleplay as ministers from EU nations, and must confront and resolve contemporary issues such as ministerial voting rights, immigration policy and foreign and security policy

Esperanza (Fraser's PSC-230)

students occupy positions in the political, social and economic realms of Esperanza, reforming in order to democratize their country which was recently held under military occupation

Furmania (Nelsen's PSC-320)

students emulate a European parliment, hold an election, issue bills, pass laws and potentially overthrow the government of Furmania

 

International Relations

NPT Simluation (Bressler's PSC-250)

in this UN-based sim, students roleplay delegates from specific countries, all of whom must work together to tackle a range of issues involving the Nuclear Weapon Non-Proliferation Treaty

National Security Council (Fraser's PSC-252)

each participant adopts the role of a member of the American Executive branch, and the group is faced with various foreign policy challenges where they must analyze scenarios and formulate policy recommendations for the President