Social Policies Analysis 1600-SZD-SPEC-APS-PA
This seminar provides an in-depth exploration of social policy analysis through the lens of Eugene Bardach's 8-step framework. The seminar is structured around intensive discussions that connect theoretical approaches to policy analysis with students' own doctoral research topics. Through critical engagement with contemporary literature and case studies, students will learn to systematically apply each step of Bardach's approach to their specific research questions and policy contexts. The seminar emphasizes the integration of methodological rigor, ethical considerations, and practical applicability in social policy analysis. With a maximum of 10 participants, the seminar format allows for substantive exchange and collaborative learning as students develop analytical frameworks relevant to their dissertation research.
Type of course
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
4) Learning outcomes:
Knowledge | The graduate knows and understands:
WG_01 - to the extent necessary for existing paradigms to be revised - a worldwide body of work, covering theoretical foundations as well as general and selected specific issues - relevant to a particular discipline
within the social sciences
WG_02 - the main development trends in the disciplines of the social sciences in which the education is provided
WG_03 - scientific research methodology in the field of the social sciences
WK_01 - fundamental dilemmas of modern civilisation from the perspective of the social sciences
Skills | The graduate is able to:
UK_05 - speaking a foreign language at B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages using the professional terminology specific to the discipline within the social sciences, to the extent enabling participation in an international scientific and professional environment
Social competences | The graduate is ready to
KO_01 - fulfilling the social obligations of researchers and creators
KO_02 - fulfilling social obligations and taking actions in the public interest, in particular in initiating actions in the public interest
KO_03 - think and acting in an entrepreneurial manner
Assessment criteria
Given the seminar format and focus on discussion, attendance at all five sessions is mandatory. In exceptional circumstances, one absence may be excused with prior notification and completion of a compensatory written assignment analyzing the missed session's readings and their application to the student's research topic (2000 words). Students must complete all required readings before each seminar and come prepared with notes on how the concepts apply to their PhD research areas to facilitate meaningful discussion.
To pass this course, students must demonstrate consistent engagement with the material through:Regular, active participation in seminar discussions showing critical engagement with required readingsSubmission of two short reflection papers (due after Sessions 2 and 4) applying relevant Bardach steps to the student's PhD topicCompletion of a final policy brief integrating the complete framework with the student's research areaFor resit: Students who fail to meet these requirements must submit a comprehensive written analysis (3000-4000 words) that applies Bardach's complete framework to a social policy issue relevant to their research, with extensive literature engagement and methodological reflection.
Ongoing assessment of seminar participation, focusing on depth of reading comprehension and application to research topics. Evaluation of bi-weekly short reflection papers (500-750 words) demonstrating application of specific Bardach steps to student's research. Assessment of final policy brief for methodological appropriateness, analytical rigor, and integration of course concepts. Qualitative feedback from instructor and peers during seminar discussions.
This course is graded on a pass/fail basis. To pass the course, students must:Attend at least 4 of the 5 seminar sessions. Demonstrate adequate engagement with required readings through active seminar participation. Submit all required reflection papers showing application of Bardach's steps to their research. Complete a final policy brief that applies the framework to their research area. Show evidence of critical thinking and methodological understanding in their contributions. A fail will be assigned if a student fails to meet the minimum requirements for attendance, participation, or written assignments, or if their work demonstrates insufficient engagement with course concepts and their application.
Bibliography
Bardach, E., & Patashnik, E. M. (2020). A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis: The Eightfold Path to More Effective Problem Solving (6th ed.). CQ Press.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: