This course introduces students to the concepts, tools and pitfalls of quantitative analysis in decision-making. Its primary objective is the development of analytic thinking and communication skills through quantitative models.
Analytic ability is an indispensable element of a successful public administrator or policy analyst.
The intent of this course is neither to advocate this approach in public policy nor to dwell on the mechanics of specific techniques. Rather, the emphasis is on the abilities to conceptualize and to communicate issues in precise, analytic terms. Such abilities will be of prime importance in public service careers. The quantitative techniques acquired in this course should be considered beneficial side-products. With each topic an associated set of algorithms or solution procedure will be presented.