It introduces the skills needed to develop policy, analyze policies, advocate in behalf of policies, and implement policies. It develops skills in analysis of contemporary policies and policy proposals. It provides students with an understanding of the research and evaluation methods which are often used to inform policy, and which sometimes are used deceitfully to mislead policy makers. The program allows students four elective courses to explore other areas of education and policy. The electives may be used partly for internships and independent study.
All courses are three credits.
A total of 36 hours are required. This course examines how values, ideas, social and economic contexts, politics, and leadership serve to propel and oppose education reform efforts. The focus will be on the American experience, but cross-cultural examples will be introduced. It also introduces major federal education policies and how they play out at the state and local levels. The class will design, conduct, and report a real program evaluation.