Introduction to Public Policy

POSC 315

Department of Political Science

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Course Learning Objectives

  • Understand fundamental concepts and theories in public policy
  • Analyze the policy-making process and key stakeholders
  • Evaluate real-world policy cases and their impacts
  • Develop skills in policy analysis and research
  • Apply theoretical frameworks to current policy challenges

Opening Activity

Quick Poll

What policy issue matters most to you right now?

• Climate Change
• Education

• Healthcare
• Economy

• Immigration
• Other

Course Overview

Understanding how public policy shapes our daily lives

Policy cycle diagram

Key Topics

Policy Formation

Understanding how issues reach the agenda

Stakeholder Analysis

Mapping key actors and interests

Implementation

From paper to practice

Evaluation

Measuring policy success

Assessment Methods

  • Policy Analysis Term Paper
  • Reading Quizzes
  • Exam I
  • Exam II
  • Class Participation
  • Policy Presentation

Public Policy Research Focus Areas

🌍

Environmental Policy

⚡

Energy Policy

🤝

Collaborative Governance

📊

Policy Process Theory

📈

Policy Outcomes

Guiding Question

How does policy change happen?

Consider:

  • What motivates policy change?
  • Who are the key players in policy change?
  • How do policies impact our daily lives?

Today's Question

Can we do anything without governmental policy or governmental intrusion in our lives?

Consider:

  • Your morning routine
  • Your commute to campus
  • Your educational experience

Policy Perspective Interview

Assignment Details:

  1. Interview someone about their views on policy & politics
  2. Suggested questions:
    • What does "public policy" mean to you?
    • How do you think policies affect your daily life?
    • What policy issues concern you most?
  3. Record responses in your course journal

Course Resources

Required Materials

📚 Birkland's "Introduction to the Policy Process"

💻 Canvas Access

Research Tools

🔍 Library Databases

📊 Government Data

Support Services

📝 Writing Center

🤝 Student Success Center

Getting Started

  • ✅ Review Canvas course page
  • 📖 Read Chapter 1 of Birkland
  • 🎤 Complete policy perspective interview
  • 📝 Prepare discussion points for next class

Next Class Preview:

Overview of Public Policy

Questions?

POSC 315: Introduction to Public Policy