Evidence Based Policy Analysis G (11792.1)
Please note these are the 2022 details for this unit
| Available teaching periods | Delivery mode | Location |
|---|---|---|
| View teaching periods | Online |
UC - Canberra, Online |
| EFTSL | Credit points | Faculty |
| 0.125 | 3 | Faculty Of Business, Government & Law |
| Discipline | Study level | HECS Bands |
| Canberra School Of Politics, Economics And Society | Graduate Level | Band 2 2021 (Commenced Before 1 Jan 2021) Band 4 2021 (Commenced After 1 Jan 2021) Band 4 2021 (Commenced After 1 Jan Social Work_Exclude 0905) |
This unit introduces participants to the specialist field of policy analysis with a focus on understanding evidence-based practice to current times. In this unit we will introduce participants to rudimentary concepts, techniques and methods employed in policy analysis; evaluate the credibility of policy analysis as an understanding of policy-making in the real world; and, apply this knowledge to specific policy problems.
Policy Analysis has long been recognised more as art and craft than science. Our democratic Westminster traditions require government advisers to balance out the dual roles of implementing the decisions of politicians while also providing analytically sound and professional policy advice which is frank and fearless. Professor Aaron Wildavsky described the job of policy advisers as 'speaking truth to power', though what is truth and the public interest will always be contested.
A strategic learning approach to policy development underpins the unit which presents policy design and analysis as a process of crafting, with a focus on achieving outcomes for citizens and the community. This involves an understanding of better policy-making which pays particular attention to the intersection of evidence and politics, inclusive policy design (with more effective stakeholder and citizen engagement), learning, and innovation. This approach is well-suited to addressing complex policy issues which the elected officials.
1. Identify strategies to improve policy-making;
2. Engage in politically aware evidence-based policy design;
3. Understand the realities of real-world policy making and the intersection between evidence and politics; and
4. Present knowledge, ideas and opinions effectively and communicate professionally in a policy environment.
1. UC graduates are professional - display initiative and drive, and use their organisation skills to plan and manage their workload
1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
2. UC graduates are global citizens - communicate effectively in diverse cultural and social settings
2. UC graduates are global citizens - understand issues in their profession from the perspective of other cultures
Policy Analysis has long been recognised more as art and craft than science. Our democratic Westminster traditions require government advisers to balance out the dual roles of implementing the decisions of politicians while also providing analytically sound and professional policy advice which is frank and fearless. Professor Aaron Wildavsky described the job of policy advisers as 'speaking truth to power', though what is truth and the public interest will always be contested.
A strategic learning approach to policy development underpins the unit which presents policy design and analysis as a process of crafting, with a focus on achieving outcomes for citizens and the community. This involves an understanding of better policy-making which pays particular attention to the intersection of evidence and politics, inclusive policy design (with more effective stakeholder and citizen engagement), learning, and innovation. This approach is well-suited to addressing complex policy issues which the elected officials.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:1. Identify strategies to improve policy-making;
2. Engage in politically aware evidence-based policy design;
3. Understand the realities of real-world policy making and the intersection between evidence and politics; and
4. Present knowledge, ideas and opinions effectively and communicate professionally in a policy environment.
Graduate attributes
1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively1. UC graduates are professional - display initiative and drive, and use their organisation skills to plan and manage their workload
1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
2. UC graduates are global citizens - communicate effectively in diverse cultural and social settings
2. UC graduates are global citizens - understand issues in their profession from the perspective of other cultures
Prerequisites
None.Corequisites
None.Incompatible units
None.Equivalent units
None.Assumed knowledge
None.
Availability for enrolment in 2023 is subject to change and may not be confirmed until closer to the teaching start date.
| Year | Location | Teaching period | Teaching start date | Delivery mode | Unit convener |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | UC - Canberra, Online | Study Block 5 | 29 August 2022 | Online | Dr John Hawkins |
| 2023 | UC - Canberra, Online | Study Block 3 | 08 May 2023 | Online | Dr Riyana Miranti |
| 2023 | UC - Canberra, Online | Study Block 5 | 28 August 2023 | Online | Dr John Hawkins |
The information provided should be used as a guide only. Timetables may not be finalised until week 2 of the teaching period and are subject to change. Search for the unit
timetable.
Required texts
Recommended textbook:
Stoker, G & Evans, M (eds) 2016 Evidence-Based Policy Making in the Social Sciences. Policy Press.
Available via reading list on Canvas site and online via UC Library.
Participation requirements
None
Required IT skills
This unit involves online tutorials in real time using the Virtual Room in your UCLearn teaching site. The Virtual Room allows you to communicate in real time with your tutor and other students. To participate verbally, rather than just typing, you will need a microphone. For more information and to test your computer, go to the Virtual Room in your UCLearn site and 'Join Course Room'. This will trigger a tutorial to help familiarise you with the functionality of the virtual room.
You will need to have access to, and familiarity with using, Microsoft Word.
Work placement, internships or practicums
None
