Course Details in 2024/25 Session

Module Title	LM Public Policy and Evidence
School	Government
Department	Public Administration and Poli
Module Code	07 29436
Module Lead	Stephen Jeffares
Level	Masters Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Exclusions
Description	This module provides participants with an overview of social science research methods, focusing particularly on the role and process of research in the contemporary public policy context. The role of research and evidence both in policy-making and in evaluating the impacts of policies is explored. In addition to providing enhanced knowledge and understanding about research in the social sciences, and in public policy in particular, the module offers a vital foundation for the dissertations that each participant prepares as part of their Masters Degree. The module examines the philosophical basis of social science research, including the methodology that underpins research decisions, as well as the ethical and confidentiality responsibilities that lie with all social researchers. Quantitative and qualitative research traditions are explored in the module, particularly their respective values and limits in relation to different types of research problem. The module also covers commonly-used techniques and tools for gathering evidence, data analysis; finally, the role of research in public policy development, implementation and evaluation is discussed.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: The intended learning outcomes for this module are: 1.Knowledge and Understanding 1.1 Demonstrate an understanding of the role of research and evidence in the process of public policy development in different sectors and contexts. 1.2 Demonstrate an understanding of the research process and the various methodologies available to researchers. 1.3 Complete individual research plans for dissertations. 2. Intellectual Skills 2.1 Demonstrate an appropriate understanding of the ‘big picture’ issues in public policy development, including the ability to make sense of the various complexities, tensions and contradictions that tend to characterise the development and implementation of contemporary public policy. 3. Professional Skills 3.1 Demonstrate commitment to high ethical standards in carrying out public policy development and social research. 3.2 Demonstrate a commitment to the responsibilities of the social researcher.
Assessment	29436-01 : Assignment 1 : Coursework (30%) 29436-03 : Assignment 2 : Coursework (70%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: One x 1,000 word essay (30%) and One x 3,000 word essay (70%) Reassessment: 1X 4000 word assignment
Other
Reading List