Res Publica Undergraduate Political Science Research Journal
Illinois Wesleyan University’s Department of Political Science and our Pi Sigma Alpha
Chapter are pleased to publish Res Publica, a journal of original undergraduate research. Our editorial board selects from among
the submitted papers that appear to make the most substantive contributions to the
discipline.
This publication reflects our department’s increasing emphasis upon developing each student’s analytical and research skills. We have made great strides toward these ends in recent years by restructuring our curriculum—in particular, the Research Methods and Senior Seminar courses.
Survey Research Project
As part of the requirements in Research Methods, students are involved in all phases of a survey research project analyzing public opinion and attitudes. This includes survey development, design, sample selection, implementation (students do all the calling), data presentation, and data analysis.
Professional Conferences
In order for our students to observe contemporary political scientists presenting their latest research, the department sends students to professional conferences. These include the Midwest Political Science Association’s annual meeting in Chicago and the national conference of the Center for the Study of the Presidency in Washington D.C.
Students Involved in Faculty Research
Another shift toward the development of professional research skills has come from faculty involving students in their own research projects. For example, our students have worked with us in:
- Collecting data examining the impact of the line-item veto upon fiscal policies in American cities.
- Party behavior in the Hungarian parliament.
- State and presidential voting patterns.
We are pleased with our recent progress and look forward to the continued development of an outstanding and innovative undergraduate political science program.
Editions of Res Publica
The students in the Political Science department publish one Res Publica volume each year.
2020s |
2010s |
2000s |
1990s |
William Munro - Betty Ritchie-Birrer '47 and Ivan Birrer, Ph.D. Endowed Professor of Political Science
Department - Political Science