Overview

This topic provides a systematic comparison and evaluation of alternatives available to public actors for solving domestic, foreign, and international political problems. Students will develop skills in policy analysis studying the theoretical foundations of policy analysis and by examining the processes by which policy problems are identified, defined, represented, and … For more content click the Read More button below.

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Tuition pattern

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Aims

This topic aims to develop a deeper understanding of:

  • The role and importance of policy analysis
  • Contemporary approaches to, and issues in, policy analysis
  • The relationship between contemporary policy theory and practice
  • Some of the key issues and challenges of applied policy analysis

Learning outcomes

On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:
1.
Assess the role and significance of policy analysis within the policy development process
2.
Critically evaluate positivist and post-positivist approaches to policy analysis
3.
Appraise the assumptions and values upon which policy initiatives are based
4.
Evaluate the significance of different stages within the policy development process
5.
Adapt your knowledge of policy analysis to a variety of public policy issues and applications

Assessments

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Requisites information

Anti-requisites: