Introduction to Public Policy

POSC 315-01

Week 1-1

David P. Adams, Ph.D.

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
  • Other

Getting in Touch

Office Hours

📅 Tuesdays & Thursdays

🕒 9:30-11:00am

Contact Methods

📧 dpadams@fullerton.edu

📱 657-278-4770

🌐 dadams.io

Schedule appointments: https://dadams.io/appointments

About Your Instructor

Professor Photo

Dr. David P. Adams

Education Journey

  • B.S. Political Science - Kennesaw State University
  • M.P.A. Public Administration - Auburn University
  • Ph.D. Public Policy and Administration - Auburn University

Research Focus Areas

🌍 Environmental Policy
⚡ Energy Policy
🤝 Collaborative Governance
📊 Policy Process Theory
📈 Policy Outcomes

Course Overview

Understanding how public policy shapes our daily lives

Key Topics

  • Policy Formation Process
  • Stakeholder Analysis
  • Policy Implementation
  • Policy Evaluation
  • Current Policy Challenges

Assessment Methods

  • Policy Analysis Term Paper
  • Mid-term Exam
  • Final Exam
  • Class Participation

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?

Todays 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