This module provides students with the opportunity to identify and discuss the nature and role of policy analysis. This includes examining what are social issues, identifying significant dynamics and trends within the policy process, and identifying opportunities for shaping the future direction of social policy. The module will provide the student with an opportunity to develop and refine a range of transferable skills in policy analysis and communication.
The module will have three interwoven components: 1) Identify and discuss the nature of policy analysis, policy making and the policy process. This will include an analysis of the social, political and economic context of policy making. 2) Examine a range of case studies in order to identify significant trends and dynamics and trends within the policy process. 3) The development of the knowledge and skills required to analyse complex policy problems and to communicate such an analysis to a range of audiences. Exercises in writing and presenting will refine the student's ability to communicate complex policy ideas concisely and effectively to a range of audiences
Overall, the emphasis will be placed on students developing the ability to undertake an analysis of policy and translating this knowledge into action and social change