Applied Policy Research ─ Concepts and Cases

Many textbooks on policy research focus on methodological and statistical theories, while leaving students little indication of how they will actually apply them to their future policy positions. Moreover, the theories they do teach are often not practical for the research that students will do upon entering the workforce.

This book takes theories of policy research and puts them into practice, demystifying the subject by translating it into real world situations in which students can actively engage. Divided into two parts, the book begins with an orientation and overview of policy theory, outlining the processes of policy analysis and evaluation from start to finish. The second part offers actual case studies of how these theories play out in real policy situations. Each chapter is presented in a uniform format allowing students to see in detail how each step is carried out: introducing the agency and research needs; identifying the research problem, the decision context and challenges presented by this problem; describing the policy research techniques used; and summarizing the outcomes of this research, drawing conclusions on its efficacy and placing it in the broader context of general research. Illustrative figures help students understand the stages of policy research. And end-of-chapter tools such as discussion questions, assignments and activities, and the case study at a glance, help students master not only the particulars of each case but the broader skills needed in future research.

In this new edition, a new chapter has been added to reflect current trends in research such as:

• evidence-based policies, programs, and practices
• performance monitoring and quality control
• cost effectiveness
• new systems to inform the need and status of social, health, education, and economic conditions.

New cases capture these current approaches and are now grouped according to types of policy research. Ideal for masters programs in public administration and public policy, Applied Policy Research is critical for preparing students for their future policy analysis and program evaluation positions.

J. Fred Springer is Research Director for EMT Associates, Inc., and Professor Emeritus in Policy Analysis at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.