I guide my students through an extensive individual research project individually designed, conducted and written by each student, alongside supervising a 100-hour internship experience with a local organization. I focus on linking the theoretical lessons from our coursework to each student’s experience at organizations that include the State Attorney’s Office, Department of Children and Families (DCF), and Gulf Coast Legal Services, several of whom have expressed interest in our students as future employees. The work experiences of our students have also inspired many interesting research projects, such as investigating perceptions among local judges on retributive vs rehabilitative sentencing and the relationship between cultural assimilation and college completion for immigrant students.
CPO 4034 Politics of the Developing Areas – South Asia
This course introduces the politics of South Asia and describes the region’s colonial legacy and contemporary political institutions. The course covers all South Asian countries, but we will emphasize the more populous countries in the region, paying the greatest attention to India, followed by Pakistan and Bangladesh. Students will develop substantial regional knowledge and learn to think critically on the major puzzles and policy issues facing the region. Students will apply this knowledge to important overarching questions: What is the relationship between development and democracy? What is the role of history in shaping political outcomes? Does the concept of democracy change in the developing world?
CPO 2002 Comparative Politics
This survey course examines the fundamentals of political systems, including institutions, ideology, regimes, economics, and ethnic divides. We explore primary areas of research in comparative politics, including colonization, nationalism, democratization, economic development, conflict, and international political economy. POS 2041 American Government
This survey course provides a comprehensive examination of the American political system. Students will become familiar with theory, organization, principles, and function of the American national government, and various elements within the political system that impact policy outcomes.
Quotes
"I really didn't expect to like this class, but my instructor made it one of my favorite classes that I've taken. He provided all of the tools for us to succeed and used our class time to have thought-provoking and insightful discussions. I learned a lot in this class and it was a respectful environment that encouraged me to learn more, ask questions, and even consider other viewpoints and ideas. This instructor was always up to date on grading and always clear about any upcoming assignments and what he expected from us for each assignment. I really feel like everyone in this course was given the tools to succeed and I'm happy to have taken this course with this instructor."
“Professor Turnbull is an incredible example of what all professors should be like. He cares about his students and their understanding of this subject. I could see that he is very passionate about this subject which in turn helped me to engage more in this class. I took this class before and had an F in it. My current grade is now an A. I can not express the gratitude I have for him. Now with the knowledge he has taught me, I have a better understanding of our American Government! Many thanks to you Professor Turnbull!!"
"I truly feel that there is always ways to improve things. However, Professor Turnbull is a true Rockstar in teaching this class! Not sure how he could top what he is already doing."
“Gain a more global perspective, really teaches you to broaden up your scope and to burst our own ‘American bubble’.