Official course description: Focuses on issues in the field of policy studies with specific reference to the formulation, analysis, and assessment of educational policies. Particular focus on strategic policy implementation, analysis of unintended policy consequences and responsive policy-making.
We will cover critical, analytic approaches to constructing and understanding educational policies. We will engage in scholarly discussion, analytical activities, and applied practice.
LEARNING OUTCOMES/OBJECTIVES
Familiarize students with the educational policy process, especially at the provincial and local level.
Give students several analytical frameworks to use in analyzing educational politics and policy.
Apply policy frameworks and theory to current political issues in education .
Give students the opportunity to develop interpersonal, leadership, and conflict management skills by working in small groups.
Teach students how to use social media and the web to locate political information social policy in their city and province.
While there are many models and texts on developing/understanding educational policy; I choose Dr. Alexander's text is because of the excellent case studies, clear writing and the practical steps she outlines in developing educational policy.
Here's and overview of each step of the Policy Analytical Process:
Define the Problem
Make the Case
Establish Your Driving Values
Develop the Alternatives
Weigh the Options
Make Recommendations
Persuade Your Audience
Implement the Solution
Evaluate Outcomes
I find that the easiest way to understand policy studies is to think of it as a policy problem ('real' or 'imagined') that needs to be solved. The problem may then may be viewed through the lens of politics, power, and values.
