A university level course in political communication can strive not only to teach the applicable communication and political theory involved, but also to provide "hands on" experience through the use of a simulated election campaign model. The model would include (1) data on the candidates involved; (2) information on the district involved for district analysis; (3) precinct-by-precinct voting histories and demographical data for the district; (4) information on the issues crucial to the district, early survey research done in the district, and available media and the costs of those media; and (5) an estimate of the resources available to the campaign and the costs of those resources. The model can serve not only as the stimulus for discussion and further investigation into the political process, but also as the basis for the assignments that the class will be required to complete during the course. Students would be assigned to fill the major decision making roles in the campaign. The 18-week course could cover the following: definition of terms, political communication theory, strategy and tactics, district analysis, an introduction to the model, issue and opposition research, polling, a research exercise, practical communication, budgeting and fundraising, voter turnout, the campaign plan, direct mail communication, candidate activities, speechwriting, communication crises, telephone banks, and reflection and discussion. (Appended is a campaign model based on a fictional state senate district.) (HOD)