Course Overview

The main goals of this course are to introduce students to the major theoretical streams in public policy and policymaking, as well as explore approaches to public policy research that combine policy and political analysis. The fundamental goal of public policy is problem-solving, and that is also the main objective of the class. Together, we will explore how this goal is accomplished. We will do so by identifying the relevant policy actors and institutions, policy needs and constraints, and, ultimately, why some public policies succeed and others fail.

Learning Achievement

The main goals of this course are to introduce students to the major theoretical streams in public policy and policymaking, as well as explore practical approaches to public policy. The fundamental goal of public policy is problem-solving, and that is also the main objective of the class. Together, we will explore how this goal is accomplished. We will do so by identifying the relevant policy actors and institutions, policy needs and constraints, and, ultimately, why some public policies succeed and others fail.

The lectures in this course will provide an introduction to public policy and the policy cycle, explain theoretical and historical approaches to policy-making, and policy formulation. Students are encouraged to ask questions after each lecture, discuss the lecture material, and relate the lecture content to real-life situations. There will be some reading assignments.

Competence

1. General-propose competence: knowledge utilization, management capability, internationalism.
2. Degree program competence: research capability, ethics.

Course prerequisites

In order to do the readings and presentations for this class, students should have a sufficient grasp of English. All lecture materials will be in English, and the readings (approximately 1 to 2 chapters per week on average) and presentations will be conducted in English.

Grading Philosophy

Three one- to two-page essays on the lecture content and readings (10% each) for a total of 30%
These are short essays designed for students to raise points of interest about the lecture content.

Pair or individual case-study presentation 30%
Students should make short presentations explaining an important public-policy issue of their choice. Details about the topic and marking rubric will be given during the class.

Final paper 40%
Students should write a five- to seven-page policy report. Students are expected to write formally and use appropriate citations.

Total 100 %

Course schedule

In the first two lectures of this course, I will introduce public policy. Then we will review the leading historical and theoretical debates in public policy, followed by lectures on policy formulation. We will also cover actor identification, interests and roles.

Course introduction, class survey to determine topics, student self-introductions. Reading assignment.
Explanation of course. Introduction to Public Policy Lecture 1 (based on Cairney, Chapter 2). Discussion. Reading assignment.
Introduction to Public Policy Lecture 2 (based on Cairney, Chapter 2). Discussion.
Assignment: One- to two- page essay on the content of these two introductory lectures and the readings. Due for Class 4.
Actors in Public Policy Lecture 1. Discussion. Reading assignment.
Actors in Public Policy Lecture 2. Discussion. Reading assignment.
Assignment: One- to two- page essay on the content of these two lectures and the readings. Due for Class 6.
Policy Formulation and Design Lecture 1. Discussion. Reading assignment.
Policy Formulation and Design Lecture 2. Discussion. Reading assignment.
Assignment: One- to two- page essay on the content of these two lectures and the readings. Due for Class 8.
Public Policy in Action. Introduction by lecturer. Discussion.
Public Policy in Action. Short presentations by students. Discussion.

Course wrap-up and discussion.

Course type

Lectures

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Other information

Please keep the following points in mind for this class.
1. Plagiarism policy: If it is found that an essay assignment, presentation/project or final report has been plagiarized, the student will automatically receive a zero grade in the essay assignment, presentation/project or final report, and may receive a failing grade in the class.
2. (For online classes) As long as their Internet environment enables them to do so, students are encouraged to attend regularly and participate actively.
3. (For online classes) Please consult with the instructor if you have any problems with Internet connectivity or delivery of the class content through the Internet.

Site for Inquiry

Link to the syllabus provided by the university