Instructor: Erik Richard

Erik Richard
 Erik Richard is an experienced educator whose areas of expertise include theology, history, and government. He holds an MA in New Testament Theology from Fresno Pacific University and a BA in History from California State University, Fresno. Throughout his career, he has taught at both the college and secondary levels, including courses in Biblical studies, history, and liberal arts at Fresno Pacific University. He has also developed continuing education courses for teachers and supported new high school educators through master teaching and BTSA. For more than a decade, Erik has taught AP U.S. History and AP American Government and Politics. A Fresno native and member of The Well Community Church, Erik values service and global engagement. He recently participated in a mission trip to Swaziland, assisting organizations serving disabled adults and orphaned children. He enjoys traveling, woodworking, cooking, visiting the beach, and walking with his family.

Classes by this instructor


SOC-979: Comparing World Governments

Comparing World Governments
Examine various government systems and political ideologies from around the world. The governments and political systems of six countries will be used as case studies: the United Kingdom, China, Iran, Russia, Mexico, and Nigeria. Emphasis will be placed on each country's government structure, economic system, elections, political parties, sources of tension, social movements, and current policy challenges.

SOC-980: Comparing World Religions

Comparing World Religions
Examine the major religions of the world, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Emphasis will be placed on each religion's origins, historical development, central doctrines, and important rituals in order to locate the similarities and differences between each faith. Additional focus will be placed on the role of religion in American history and in today's global community.

SOC-981: Branches of U.S. Government

Branches of U.S. Government
Explore the structure and functions of the United State government's three policymaking institutions: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Focus is placed on the role of each branch in developing public policy and on exploring the checks and balances that are intended to limit each institution. Students will also develop skills to effectively teach this topic in the classroom and align lessons to teaching, Common Core, and content standards.

SOC-982: American Electoral Process

American Electoral Process
Survey the structure and functions of the American electoral process with an emphasis on public opinion, citizen participation, ideology, interest groups, the media, political parties, campaigns, and elections. Teachers will also learn how to implement these concepts in the classroom.