Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2017 - POL 253 D100

Introduction to the Public Policy Process (3)

Class Number: 5176

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 4 – Apr 7, 2017: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 19, 2017
    Wed, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Explores the political dimensions of public policy making in Canada. Reviews theories and techniques in policy analysis, and focuses on the contemporary dynamics of public policy in various economic and social sectors from the point of view of political ideas, interests, institutions, and decision-making. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed to introduce students to the key concepts of public policy, to help them to move beyond the notion that the only political action is voting, and to see the wide variety of ways in which citizens can influence policy. The learning objectives are to:

1. Become familiar with some classic writings about public policy that yield insights into examining public policy in a deeper way.
2. Apply the concepts and key actors of public policy learned in step 1 to a variety of situations, such as economic, health, education, and environmental policy, including understanding your own ability to influence the policy process.
3. Compare the basic perspectives of public policy, particularly the policy cycle, and begin to develop your own perspective.Develop basic skills in academic research, reading, writing, and critical thinking and application.  

There will be a two-hour lecture and a one-hour tutorial per week. Tutorials start week two.

Grading

  • Participation 15%
  • Homework 20%
  • Quizzes 20%
  • Mid-term 20%
  • Final 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Articles and chapters available on-line through SFU Library databases and on reserve at SFU library.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.
For details, see http://www.sfu.ca/politics/undergraduate/program/related_links.html and click on “Plagiarism and Intellectual Dishonesty” .

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS