Research

ASSIGNMENT 2: POLICY BRIEF The Policy Brief is a short (2-3 pages), neutral summary of what you have learned about the social problem you have been discussing. Briefs should be written for an audience of policy-makers who would be making practical decisions under time constraints. They should contain synthesize the complex details, so the reader can easily understand the heart of the issue, its background, the players (“stakeholders”) and any recommendations, or even educated guesses about the future of the issue. Students may use tables and graphs and should include a short list of references. Assignment 2: Policy Brief Section Points Earned Executive Summary (1-2 paragraphs) - should convince readers of the value of further investigation - Description of the problem addressed - Statement on why the current approach/policy option needs to be changed; - Recommendations for action 15 Context and importance of the problem (2-3 paragraphs) - should convince the target audience that a current and urgent problem exists which requires them to take action - Clear statement of the problem or issue - Short overview of the root causes of the problem - Brief history of policies related to the problem - A clear statement of the policy implications of the problem that clearly establishes the current importance and policy relevance of the issue 20 Critique of current policy (1-2 paragraphs) - should detail shortcomings of the current approach or options being implemented, the need for change and the focus of where change needs to occur. - Short overview of the current policy - An argument illustrating why and how the current or proposed approach is failing 20 Policy recommendations (1-2 paragraphs) - should provide a detailed and convincing proposal of how the failings of the current policy approach need to change - Breakdown of the specific practical steps or measures that need to be implemented - A closing paragraph re-emphasizing the importance of action. 25 Organization and Structure - the brief should be organized, uses professional language and does not contain grammatical and spelling errors 10 Grammar, APA style, Citations 10 TOTAL 100