Unit information: Policy Processes and Policy Research in 2014/15

Unit name	Policy Processes and Policy Research
Unit code	SPOLM5008
Credit points	20
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Demi Patsios
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School for Policy Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

This unit forms the introduction to the Graduate Programme in Policy Rsearch. The unit has four elements. First it will provide an overview of the research process and will introduce students to the basic methodological distinctions (for example qualitative versus quantitative research) and the issue of the link between epistemology and research method. Second, it will introduce students to theories of the policy process, issues of policy implementation, the role of research in the policy process and the analysis of policy impact. Third it will explore key contemporary debates, for example the rise of evidence based policy and practice, the role of participatory research. Finally it will introduce students to ‘research ethics’ and ‘research governance’ and examine ethical questions that arise when undertaking policy research.

Unit aims to:

• Acquaint students with theories of the state and of the process of policymaking, including the role of research ‘for policy’ and ‘on policy’.
• Develop a clear understanding of the broader context in which policy is developed and its effectiveness is judged.
• Provide students with up-to-date knowledge of the key elements of the research process and of the basic difference between research methodologies.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On completion of the unit students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a clear understanding and appreciation of the wider social, political and economic context in which policy is developed and policy research conducted.
• Give a considered account of the stages of the research process.
• Make intelligent distinctions between the different research methods available.

Teaching Information

Teaching will take place in 12 x 1.5 sessions over a 3 day block visit. The unit will combine lectures, seminar discussion and small group exercises. Students will be encouraged to apply theoretical knowledge to real life research questions and present exercises to the class.

Assessment Information

Assessment is through the completion of a 4000-word essay. The essay should demonstrate that the student has a clear understanding of: the relevant epistemological and theoretical debates underpinning research, the research process and the relationship between policy making and policy research.

Reading and References

• Becker S., Bryman A. (eds) (2004) Understanding research for policy and practice, Bristol: Policy Press.

• Colebatch H. (2002) Policy. Buckingham: Open University Press.

• Considine, M.: (2005) Making public policy: institutions, actors, strategies. Oxford: Polity.

• Davies HTO, Nutley S & Smith P (eds) (2000) What works? Evidence based Policy and Practice in Public Services, Bristol: The Policy Press

• Hill M (1997) The policy process and the modern state, London: Prentice Hall