Policy Solutions Paper Guidelines
The purpose of this paper is to identify how a policy is meant to solve a problem. Write as if you are explaining to measure and evaluate the policy. You will need to use a policy that is already in effect, preferably by a government agency.
- What are the problems that the policy is supposed to fix? What are the solutions that fix those problems?
- When did the policy go into effect? Are there data available before the policy was implemented and afterwards?
- Who or what was the target for this policy ie who or what was this policy supposed to impact?
- Who is affected by this policy? Have those that are affected by the policy articulated their feelings about it?
- Is there a public discourse about the policy? If so, what is said? Are there supporters and opponents of the policy? Is their information correct?
- Analyze the policy by discussing the outcomes of the policy. Does the policy do everything that it intended? Does the policy solve the problem?
- Is it possible that the policy created new problems (policy paradox)?
- Evaluate the policy by discussing cost-benefit analysis. What is the total cost of the policy? Are the benefits worth it?
-Include relevant information, but limit your scope of information. You have to continually ask yourself, is this a NEED to know piece of information, or just interesting to know.
-For research look in newspapers, legislator websites, government documents, policy journals, and official documents for organizations (Interest groups)
-Formal information: This paper will be 5-7 pages long, double spaced in 12pt Times New Roman font with one-inch margins.
