Theories of the Policy Process 1600-SZD-SPEC-TKP-PA
This seminar provides an in-depth exploration of contemporary theories of the policy process based on Weible's seminal "Theories of the Policy Process" (5th ed., 2023). The seminar takes a comparative approach to examining major theoretical frameworks that explain how policies are formed, implemented, and changed. Students will critically analyze these frameworks and apply them to their own doctoral research topics. Through intensive discussions and collaborative learning, participants will develop a sophisticated understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of policy processes, the strengths and limitations of different approaches, and their applicability to diverse policy contexts. The seminar format, limited to 10 participants, enables substantive exchange and targeted application of theoretical concepts to students' specific research interests within the social sciences.
Type of course
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
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 readings on policy process theories; submission of two short reflection papers (due after Sessions 2 and 4) applying selected theoretical frameworks to the student's PhD topic; completion of a final theoretical application paper integrating at least two policy process theories with the student's research area. For resit: Students who fail to meet these requirements must submit a comprehensive written analysis (3000-4000 words) that applies multiple theoretical frameworks from the course to a policy area relevant to their research, with extensive literature engagement and comparative theoretical 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 theories to student's research. Assessment of final theoretical application paper for theoretical sophistication, comparative analysis, 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 theoretical frameworks to their research; complete a final theoretical application paper that integrates multiple theories with their research area; show evidence of critical thinking and theoretical 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 theories and their application.
Bibliography
Weible, C. M. (Ed.). (2023). Theories of the Policy Process (5th ed.). Routledge.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: