POLICY ACTORS, INSTITUTIONS, AND THE POLICY PROCESS

PUBAFFR 240

Facilitates skill-building to answer questions such as how policymakers use research and evidence in their jobs, how researchers can make their work useful to policymakers, and how legislative support staff and other stakeholders use research and evidence to shape policy. Explore the definition of "evidence-based", learn about different kinds of evidence and how it is used, and learn strategies for judging the rigor of research evidence. Also explore the difference between an education-based approach to working with policymakers versus an advocacy-based approach, learn strategies for communicating research to policy makers (including written and oral presentations and data visualizations), research examples of successful evidence-based policymaking efforts, and understand the limits of using research in policymaking.

PUBAFFR 873

Develops skills in policy analysis in two ways. First, sets out the conceptual foundations for understanding the role of policy analysis in democratic politics. Second, provides training and experience in policy analysis craft.

POLISCI/PUBAFFR/URBRPL 874

Examines the political, social, and economic contexts that shape and are shaped by policy making processes. Though the focus is on the US, international comparisons will be made, and students are encouraged to think about the American context through comparative and international perspectives. Familiarizes students with dominant theories and models of policymaking process and policy change, starting with the model of the policy cycle. Focuses in on key topics and issues in policy making, specifically, agenda setting, implementation, and the relationships between policymaking and democracy. Reflects on contemporary and emerging issues and dilemmas of the politics of policy making.

PUBAFFR 200

Offers a general primer on large-scale policies directed by US federal and state governments, with specific examples in pressing policy areas. Takes existing policies and the policy process as a given, explains them in detail, and puts a policy focus on very specific contemporary questions of concern to policymakers. Gain a broad overall knowledge of how the majority of state and federal funding is spent and the policy outcomes associated with that spending.

PUBAFFR 869

Workshop in program and policy analysis taught through student teams working on real problems for public agencies and organizations; teaches analytical skills, report preparation and writing; and presentations of results.